The Proteas’ T20 International modus operandi was established in the five matches in the West Indies and is now cemented in place for the World Cup next month. Trust the top six batsmen to put a ‘par’ score on the board when batting first and then rely on a specialist bowling attack to defend it. Or restrict the opposition to a par score and then rely on the top six to chase it.
My very first thought on learning of the omission or traveling reserve status of Georgr Linde was that our team is doomed already. Not having opted to add Faf as a very necessary batter made it imperative imho to have the batting ability of Linde not to speak of his bowling prowess. Beating Sri Lanka with 4 spinners is all very well but I can't see it succeeding in the middle east. Anyway as a loyal Protea supporter from the south eastern US I wish our team well.
Frank, many thanks for your correspondence - I do appreciate it and apologies for my late reply. The omission of George Linde was extremely odd, but that should not be misinterpreted as criticism of the selections of Bjorn Fortuin and Keshav Maharaj, both of whom showed their skill and quality in Sri Lanka. As a travelling reserve, perhaps Linde will get his chance. The failure to engage with Faf, never mind successfully engage, is even more peculiar. It would have been fine, in my view, if it was made public and 'official' that it was CSA's policy not to make use of players outside of national contracts. Whatever we make of such a policy, at least we would know it was the 'policy'!
Thanks Neil. I read Quinton de Kock's optimism for the team's performance next month. I think he holds the key to our fortunes. If he "shows up" as he has in the recent series' the team might be there at the end.
Interesting article - I would have gone with Linde. Not sure about the other non-travelling reserves. Did not watch the South African innings - some of us have to work. Can you tell me why Wian Mulder was fielding - I did notice David Miller in his shorts. Hopefully nothing serious. Once again, thank you for your insights.
My very first thought on learning of the omission or traveling reserve status of Georgr Linde was that our team is doomed already. Not having opted to add Faf as a very necessary batter made it imperative imho to have the batting ability of Linde not to speak of his bowling prowess. Beating Sri Lanka with 4 spinners is all very well but I can't see it succeeding in the middle east. Anyway as a loyal Protea supporter from the south eastern US I wish our team well.
Frank, many thanks for your correspondence - I do appreciate it and apologies for my late reply. The omission of George Linde was extremely odd, but that should not be misinterpreted as criticism of the selections of Bjorn Fortuin and Keshav Maharaj, both of whom showed their skill and quality in Sri Lanka. As a travelling reserve, perhaps Linde will get his chance. The failure to engage with Faf, never mind successfully engage, is even more peculiar. It would have been fine, in my view, if it was made public and 'official' that it was CSA's policy not to make use of players outside of national contracts. Whatever we make of such a policy, at least we would know it was the 'policy'!
Thanks Neil. I read Quinton de Kock's optimism for the team's performance next month. I think he holds the key to our fortunes. If he "shows up" as he has in the recent series' the team might be there at the end.
Interesting article - I would have gone with Linde. Not sure about the other non-travelling reserves. Did not watch the South African innings - some of us have to work. Can you tell me why Wian Mulder was fielding - I did notice David Miller in his shorts. Hopefully nothing serious. Once again, thank you for your insights.
Hi Daniel, it was indeed a thigh muscle 'tweak' suffered by David Miller. Keep your observations coming, they are much appreiated!