Aggressive intent the key ...

Throw Graeme Smith, Corrie van Zyl and Kepler Wessels together in a room to strategize the downfall of the Indian cricket team and you end up with a gathering of minds so determined and hell-bent on execution that even Chuck Norris would be impressed!

Add the dynamic that the latter two have been abruptly empowered to take immediate steps to ensure progression and you have a potent mix of hardened individuals who will challenge each other in numerous ways whilst single-mindedly focusing on the end goal of success.

These three blokes are tough.

Each have earned that reputation over the years and whilst you may not instantly recognize that trait in Corrie, rest assured I have first hand experience that he can mix it with the best of them. If Corrie wasn’t at the peak of his career during isolation he could well have been a respected household name around the cricketing globe. He was quick and swung the ball at pace. He was extremely fit and energetic and therefore always at you, and he had the essential ingredient of malice that a true fine fast bowler must possess. When facing Corrie you always knew he meant business and you were in his sights. You were left in no doubt that you were in the middle of a shootout and he was the gunslinger with a chamber bursting with weaponry. It was always ‘game on’ and his resilience and resolve was challenging.

The end result of the first Test and more importantly the implementation of strategy should not surprise anyone. As Graeme pointed out, the maturity of the squad needs applauding as the past two weeks have been taxing for all. To have the ability to put that potential turmoil behind you and focus on the immediate task ahead takes nerve and organizational skills, which were no doubt enhanced during Mickey’s tenure.

The team upped the anti once the bell tolled for play. The hostility stakes were raised after the batsmen, particularly Amla, excelled and South Africa were afforded the luxury of calling the shots and proceeded to boss India around. Steyn was magnificent after tea on day two and produced one of the finest spells of reverse swing bowling witnessed to date. My mate Waqar Younis would have been impressed.

If there was one aspect of South Africa’s game that was always going to improve immeasurably and instantaneously under the new leadership it was always going to be the aggression. Kepler and Corrie possess steely desire and are as hard as nails. Given the correct circumstances they would never release the stranglehold and pressure. Smith would enjoy that environment and he quite correctly runs the show, but having that type of background support and confidence would satisfy and encourage him. It is all very well instilling an edge to proceedings but remember the players must correctly implement this new strategy and their faultless display in doing so must also be commended.

Aggression when controlled and channelled correctly is a potent weapon that breeds belief and success.

India were outgunned in Nagpur.