It seems we are in for a lean time when it comes to the shorter format of the game – and I imagine that the reason for this is not due to the lack of talent, but to the lack of experience.
The difference between our test setup and that of the ODI and T20’s are the consistency in selection. The test squad is a settled group, all very experienced and comfortable with their roles. As Naas would say, “on the other hand Darren” we have the shorter formats that have relatively inexperienced players in terms of international exposure, as well as leadership. The same problem exists as far as management at this level is concerned. As you well know, Gary Kirsten has given the responsibility of the T20 campaigns over to assistant coach, Russell Domingo.
The reasons for our lack of success in the shorter version of the game are exactly the same as those that ensure success in the longer format. Due to the hectic schedule players have these days, Kirsten is obviously looking at increasing the longevity of his prime players like Smith, Kallis & Amla by enlarging his pool of players. The cost, though, is that, in the short term, the Proteas will suffer some defeats.
With 2015 some way away, it is perhaps a cross worth bearing in the short term.
Let’s hope it works!
A long and Winding Road
– by Paul Kruger
Possibly the best summary of the weekend’s game comes from Gavin Rich on the Supersport page. Click here to read his article “SA teams just not at full gallop”.
We know from experience that it takes a while to get into the rhythm of the game. Rich makes the interesting point that the Aussie teams, who are into the third round already, look decidedly more settled. Certainly, the Force made many a Bulls supporter choke on his B & C as the home team stuttered to what their coach called their worst game in a few years. In the end, an ugly win beats a great loss any day, and to take five points out of it is a bonus in more ways than one. Hopefully, it will be a timely wake-up call for the Bulls.
The Cheetahs held their own in the first half, but the “first tour match fairy” did her ugly thing in the second half. I am still not sure whether the Cheetahs played worse in the second half, or whether the Chiefs just moved into top gear. Their attacking style of play shows why they are the reigning champions, and not eager to lose their crown.
Gavin Rich’s view on the match in Durban is quite interesting. He refers to a match between the Bulls and the Sharks in 2007 which dished up the same level of boredom, yet the same two teams met again in the final that year. The Stormers have now lost as many games as they did the whole of last year. The fact that both were away games will not be much of a consolation. Facing the triumphant Chiefs in their first home game this coming weekend is yet another big challenge. They must be praying that Tiaan Liebenberg will be able to play on Saturday, after his long absence due to injury.
Roché Cowley het vir my die volgende staaltjies gestuur. Ek het dit toe maar in my vriend Manie se mond gelê.
Ou Manie se mening oor drank
My dokter sê ek moet my drinkery dop hou, nou sit ek maar voor die spieel en suip. Hy sê my hy kan nie presies sê wat is fout met my nie, dis moontlik al die gedrinkery, so ek sal maar terug gaan as hy nugter is.
En ek soek asseblief ook raad vir sinus, veral oor naweke, as ek rugby kyk. As ek sinus my glas leeg.
Ai. Tisjoe.
Mooi week, ou Grote.
