A Ray of hope

An interesting thing happened the other day.

The sponsors of the current test series, Digicell, had a welcoming cocktail party for both teams upon arrival in Trinidad. Following the obligatory speeches, it was time for both groups of players to catch up with a ‘coldie’ or two and appreciate the hospitality.

I guess it is because I am the South African representative on the commentary team, but no fewer than six of the South African squad approached me at some stage during the evening to get a message across. I got the feeling they wanted me to put perceptions right, in a public way.

The message was plain and simple.

They all relayed to me that they thought that Ray Jennings was doing a superb job as South African coach and wanted him to continue in the role come June when an appointment is made on a more permanent basis. I am not going to mention names, but the players involved were an interesting mix of younger teams members and senior pro’s who have been around for a long time.

I know the qualities of Ray Jennings after playing against him for many years and also with him at Northerns Titans. As we know he is a bit different but these individuals who chatted to me could not have been more positive about their support for Ray as coach.

To a man they expressed their enthusiasm about the way Jet challenges them on a regular basis to get the best out of them. That is his style and whilst it will work for most there will always be the odd player who will be rubbed up the wrong way.

Over the past three or four weeks I have read most that has been written about this issue. Often I have read that the players don’t see eye to eye with Jennings. Well, it is my job to tell you that that is far from the truth.

I heard the message loud and clear.

I hope Cricket South Africa is listening.