On the right track

The mail coming my way is that some cricket addicts in South Africa are virtually dismissing the success of their team in the West Indies. OK, I'll be the first to admit that the West Indies are not top of pops at the moment and are suffering from a lack of professionalism, but results count.

Since April 2001, South Africa have only tasted success away from home on two occasions. They beat Zimbabwe in 2001 and their only other trophy-cabinet success was against Bangladesh in 2003. That in itself tells a story. But climbing back up the ladder has got to start somewhere.

Let me tell you where South Africa have impressed me in the Caribbean, which is not an easy tour. Ricky Ponting has stressed as much in the past.

1. Smith's captaincy in the field has been far superior to anything I have witnessed so far from him. He has become pro-active.

2. His determination with the willow has set the standard and the likes of De Villiers and Prince have fed off him.

3. Both on and off the field the South Africans have been happy tourists. The camaraderie has been plain for all to see. 5. Those in possession are making a difference - doing a job and not leaving it up to the next guy.

6. The single-minded application from Ntini and Nel after previous sub-standard performances has been remarkable.

7. For the first time in a long time, roles have been defined and every individual knows what's expected of him.

8. The backroom boys are ahead of the game and are aware of what needs to be monitored to achieve optimum performance.

9. Individual pride of performance is a very high priority.

10. There is no doubt that every member of the touring squad is pulling for each other.

11. Coaching techniques are challenging individuals and providing new initiatives.

12. Senior players are buying into the idea of being mentors for the younger players and subsequently setting attainable standards and goals.

13. Communication is obviously strong.

14. Selection has found direction.

15. Batsmen are not satisfied with starts and are capitalising.

16. Slip catching has been of a high standard.

17. Plans in the field have been successfully implemented.

18. Motivation as a unit to get South Africa back where they were on the cricketing globe is high.

While South Africa are expected to beat the West Indies on their home turf, I think you will agree that all of the above constitutes a giant step in the right direction. It is also a far cry from where the boys were nine months ago.

I was in Sri Lanka then - and it wasn't pretty!