Practice match opportunity to recover reckons Philander – Cricket News Update
Following their heroics in the first Test against England at the Oval, the touring South African contingent has shifted base to New Road, taking on Worcester in a two-day match, and while the team is still revelling in a special win, Vernon Philander, the Proteas pacer was quick to point out the importance of a warm-up game.
"When you win a game, you want to get into the next game as soon as possible but this break gives us time to recover properly," he said.
The first Test concluded on the 23rd, giving the touring side plenty of time to recuperate before the second, which is scheduled to commence on the 2nd of next month. A 10 day-period allows both sides to assess their strategies and try to rectify the weak areas.
While the English team has plenty to ponder after suffering a heavy innings defeat, the Proteas have little to tinker apart from giving their unused players an opportunity to get some valuable time at the crease. The likes of AB de Villiers, JP Duminy and Jacques Rudolph all were mere spectators as Hashim Amla, Jacques Kallis and Graeme Smith did significant damage, piling a mammoth 637. Alviro Petersen, who managed a duck, will further relish the additional outing before the second game.
Also the extra match will also help South Africa to try out other squad members, including the likes of Albie Morkel, Lonwabo Tsotsobe and Robin Peterson, all of whom comprise the bowling department. Also with Smith not with the team currently – returning home for the birth of his daughter – de Villiers will skipper the side and will play as an out-an-out batsman, with Tami Tsolekile donning the gloves.
Considering the above factors, Philander said that the warm-up game, which begins today, July 27, 2012, will help players to get back into the groove, while helping others to stay in contention if an opportunity arises.
"There are a lot of guys that haven't batted so it gives them the opportunity to have a bat," Philander said. "And for the guys who are on the side, this will give them an opportunity to play."
Tags: