Poor Proteas Performance Prolonged

Written by Michael Owen - February 26th, 2020

Sports

There was much excitement and anticipation ahead of the third and final T20 clash between South Africa and Australia at Newlands as the series was poised at 1-1. However, all hopes for a Proteas victory over the Sandpapering Outback were crushed as the home side were all out for 96 and lost the series 2-1.

The Aussies were in a commanding position from the get-go as the visitors posted 193/5 (20) – the highest ever T20 score at Newlands. At the beginning of the first innings, the opening pair courtesy of Warner and captain Finch, unleashed fury left, right and centre over the South African bowling attack – at one point the Aussies were on par to score close to 240 for their 20 overs. At the very least, the home side’s bowling deserves commendation for their ability to scrape themselves back into the game by restricting Australia to less than 200. This was thanks to a string of wickets; from an Australian perspective, the dismissal of Warner and Finch were completely unnecessary. They could have protected their wickets and batted deeper into their innings since they were maintaining an impressive run rate nevertheless. With hindsight, that did not seem to make a difference as the Proteas could not scrape together at least 100 (for the second time in this 3 match series). With the T20 Cricket World Cup just around the corner, the soft wickets may be something that the Aussies will consider.

It seemed like a farcry to expect some Protea Fire after the early wicket of captain Quinton de Kock. With QdK opening the batting, many cricket critics have hypothesized that the Proteas’ success or failure rests solely on the performance of Quinny. Although I believe that to be too simple and tedious an observation, it could hold some merit. It’s simple – the Proteas batsmen have not been up to the standard that we have come to expect over the years. This is surprising when one considers that the newly appointed batting consulant is none other than the legendary, King Kallis (arguably one of the modern era’s best cricketers).

Bavuma has shown great skill and I have been impressed with his dynamic shot selection in T20s. I have no doubt that once he’s recovered from injury he should be the man to walk out to the crease with the skipper. Question marks lay atop the heads of former captain Faf du Plessis as well as Miller. Both of whom have failed to show their dominantly aggressive nature, and their lack of presence has undoubtedly been felt.

With the world cup in spitting difference and a T20 series defeat to England and Australia (both of which were on home soil), Mark Boucher will have a task that requires clear vision and planning for the months ahead.

Although this article may seem overly critical, what would be the point in sugar coating losing performances? Participation medals are not handed out at the highest level, and the Proteas are well aware of that…I hope.

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