Captaincy comparisons

Take a close look at AB de Villiers over the course of the remaining one-dayers in this series. Once you have completed that study, flick your television remote control and check out Michael Clarke in Adelaide during the next test Down Under. At the moment both of these skippers are the epitome of how successful captains should run the show. They are particularly energised and it is no wonder that essential component is rubbing off on their teammates.

In AB's case he has been captain for five minutes but already one can see his modus operandi. Clarke has been exhibiting his leadership qualities for some time now and is getting better by the day. It of course helps when you are winning but it is no coincidence that these two skippers are in charge of the two resurgent teams in world cricket at the moment.

You will notice some familiar patterns during your analysis. They have both had to stamp their authority on teams that have been led by established leaders for a substantial duration, so to suddenly take over the reigns has required individuality.

First and foremost both wanted the duty. Secondly, both have admitted they may not get everything right but those potential errors will not be made due to a lack of enterprise. Most importantly both AB and Clarke are enjoying themselves and the challenge. Both of them are continually on the look-out to make an impact with adventurous captaincy which in turn keeps all and sundry alert.

The self-belief that is now creeping into both outfits is obviously enhanced by the poor performances of the opposition but in turn, both Australia and South Africa – who are now one and two in the ODI rankings – have fed off their respective victories and have been galvanised.

The patterns that are making these two individuals stand-out leaders are worth closer inspection. They are very dependant on gut feel in their decision-making processes and that has always been the hallmark of fine skippers. Mechanical captains just don't cut it, and leadership flair is exciting.

I have always said that captains are born and not made and they need to warmly embrace the responsibility. They are both ticking that box. To emphasise my thoughts, a case in point occurred early in the season when the leadership chalice was suddenly thrust the way of a reluctant Amla. A quick glance at his unburdened recent performances reveal the story of a now uncluttered mind.

The way that AB and Clarke both marshal their troops will have an infectious reaction in the changeroom environment. All will be wanting to follow the lead and will be acutely aware that this is the new style going forward.

Presumably AB's impressive introduction will continue and his emergence will expand and then in time he, like Clarke, will lead in the tests as well.

Both of these men have a lot on their plates and no doubt more challenging times lie ahead, but currently it is a delight to witness the exuberance of the teams emanating from captaincy clarity.