Tall Protea syndrome
by Haze's Comment 07/09/2004, 15:35
Human nature often astounds me. I guess I shouldn't be too surprised.
Since I have returned from Sri Lanka every person with access to the electronic media has been shouting the odds about the national cricket team. In Australia it is called 'tall poppy syndrome' as people try to cut individuals down to size. Maybe it should be called 'tall protea syndrome' in this country!
I continually hear comments that in essence are character assassinations as often those who should be in the know simply call for a mass culling exercise and shoot from the hip. To be honest I am sick of hearing people fall into this trap. It is easy to 'knock' everybody but it becomes more intricate when attempting to find solutions. That in my mind sorts out the men from the boys and not many are growing up!
The following are my solutions to what is obviously a national sporting concern and hopefully I will provide food for thought and steer a path for the way forward during the ICC Champions Trophy.
Senior players need to take more responsibility. South Africa possesses some of the best exponents around and talent is not the issue. Quality 30's and 40's just don't cut it. Scores of 80 plus dictate the outcome.
Get a spring in your step. Methodically get through the overs quickly and importantly the change-over time between overs, in an effort to transfer some pressure. Mark Boucher must take on this role to ensure there are levels of intensity and energy that promotes positiveness.
Players must adopt their own game plan. It appears that Smith is spending far too much time explaining things on the field when all that work should have been done beforehand and a strategy mutually agreed upon.
Players must know their individual roles. Chopping and changing of the batting order and bowling formats breeds confusion. As a player it is essential to know exactly what is expected of you.
Kallis must bat at number 3. Astoundingly in over 200 One Day Internationals he has filled that role in only 50 percent of the games. He is the rudder.
Likewise on the bowling front, players must know who they will be working in tandem with so that they can dovetail and build pressure. That is an often-overlooked essential ingredient in winning a game in the shortened format. It is amazing how half a dozen tight, disciplined overs can turn a game on its head.
Death bowling is an art. Firstly, the individual must enjoy it and he must embrace the challenge. Some 11 different players have been used in the last 18 or so games, a clear indication that crucial strategy is void.
The players must bring back the enjoyment factor. It is an enormous honour to represent your country and something to be very proud of. Enjoy the opportunity to test yourself against the best and look forward to the challenge.
Don't exercise damage control. If things are not going as planned, step up a gear in a controlled manner or change tact in an attempt to alter the course of proceedings.
Display some controlled aggression. Let your opposition know you mean business.
Unforced errors lose games. Get that extras count manageable. Discipline in this area has been the hallmark of teams of yesteryear.
Smith must be surrounded by individuals he knows will provide the levels of support he requires. He must have confidence in the knowledge that they are playing at the levels of desire to succeed for themselves, their country and their teammates.
To the team......good luck guys......we are watching with more interest than normal.