That was as a grim a batting display as South Africa have ever produced in a One-Day International and the mood of gloom about their prospects of having to play in the World Cup pre-qualifying tournament deepened. There is still a long way to go before the 2023 World Cup but, while points continue to slip away, their chances of finishing in the top eight are diminishing.
All teams essentially face two tasks: get the job done (whatever that may be), and maintain good working relationships. Too much focus on the former and relationships suffer (witness the current SJN hearings); too much on the latter and, in cricketing terms, you don't win. If any team, in any sport, wants to win at international level the best available team has to be selected. The Proteas' current selection criteria will help bolster team relationships, but they are destined to lose when faced with more functional teams. You can't have it both ways.
Proteas in Sri Lanka, day 13
All teams essentially face two tasks: get the job done (whatever that may be), and maintain good working relationships. Too much focus on the former and relationships suffer (witness the current SJN hearings); too much on the latter and, in cricketing terms, you don't win. If any team, in any sport, wants to win at international level the best available team has to be selected. The Proteas' current selection criteria will help bolster team relationships, but they are destined to lose when faced with more functional teams. You can't have it both ways.