Lofty ambitions

The last couple of weeks have seen some bizarre nominations for positions of influence and power making it to the front pages of the various ‘dailies’, and one very sensible one that is yet to get any media coverage.

Arnold Schwarzenegger has decided to become a Running Man for governor of California, John McEnroe is looking to join the racquet elsewhere and Jerry Springer has also put his hand up so that the trailer trash he enthralls can be entertained further. Most of these are simply to do with ego and nothing more although the odd futuristic dream is clouding some measures of judgment. Although I suppose with Arnold, at least there will be someone to look up to!

Another nomination I, and many of the populous of earth would like to see has not materialized yet. Hopefully at some time in the future Hillary Rodham Clinton will eventually swallow some pride and decide to join the fray at the highest level to save the world from any further comings and goings from George In-the-Bush.

Anyway, I am getting ahead of myself.

The one sane nomination that I alluded to earlier has a cricketing theme that is closer to my heart. If my mail is correct the new manager of the South African cricket team is due to be announced shortly….although shortly is hardly the term for it.

There have been numerous applications for the post, which for the right person, has got to be one of the best jobs going. The successful applicant has got to have an unbridled passion for the game, communication skills second to none and he must be eloquent. Ideally, he must have played the game extensively so as to pass on valuable snippets in the depths of the locker room to those who are enthusiastic about soaking up priceless information. He must be a man of pride, a man of passion and a man to be respected.

Should this individual be given the correct reign of influence, he will form an important link between the players and the at times inadequate reasoning of the UCB. He will complete the jigsaw puzzle that is currently devoid of a vital piece and ensure that all are galvanized towards a singular goal.

Yes, there will at times be some menial tasks to be performed for this post so therefore humility is another essential ingredient. Sounds a tough position to fill doesn’t it?

There is but one man who can be selected, as he was for each of his 156 first class games throughout a distinguished career when he paraded his talent in South Africa and England.

Vince van der Bijl is his name.

At 6 foot 9 inches he will also be looked up to in more ways than one!