South Africa all set to battle for a hectic season, says Rob Walter – Cricket News Update
South African’s conditioning and fitness coach, Rob Walter, believes that the players are ready for a tough cricketing season ahead.
The Proteas have not featured in a competitive match since their disappointing World Cup 2011 exit at the hands of New Zealand, in March this year. Though, shortly after that, many of the players had been involved with their respective franchises in the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League.
However, a much needed break has seen quite a few changes to the team, which saw middle-order batsman, AB de Villiers, taking on the ODI captaincy from Graeme Smith.
Walter was wary of the fact that players have been away for quite some time but was impressed by their commitments to South African Cricket.
"It has been difficult because the guys are all scattered around the country and the globe," said Walter, "but I have been really impressed with the commitment that the players have shown."
He added that it was strange scenario where they had a seven-month break but was adamant that the extra rest will help the players in the long run, especially concerning the tough 18 months that are to follow.
"The next 18 months are going to be crucial so everyone has to be in top shape. Most of the players are involved in the Champions League in September so their fitness levels are at a peak, but we will see at the end of the month just where everybody is at," he said.
In a full shake-up, the Cricket Board of the Proteas, appointed former opener, Gary Kirsten, as their new head coach. Kirsten most notably led team India to their historic World Cup 2011 triumph.
The long break has also given Kirsten plenty of time to ponder and devise some new strategies for the team, which always tends to buckle under pressure.
The 43-year-old will be hoping to lift the tag of under-achievers from a side which has an array of talent at its dispossal.
His first assignment though will be against a formidable Australian team on October 13, when both sides meet in the first T20 at Newlands, Cape Town.
Tags: