Proteas vs India December/January tour

[stefan9]

Fixtures:

First test 16 -20 December Centurion start time 10:30
Second test 26 - 30 December Kingsmead start time 10:00
Third test 2 January - 6 January Newlands start time 10:30

20/20 international 9 January 14:30 Moses Mabhida start time 14:30

First odi 12 January Kingsmead start time 14:30
Second odi 15 January Wanderers start time 14:30
Third odi 18 January Newlands start time 14:30
Fourth odi St. George's Park start time 14:30
Fifth odi Centurion start time 10:00

Btw. Its really nice for CSA to bend overbackwards for the BCCI again. The use of UDRS is the home boards decision . SA team wants to use but India is against but guess what happens we decide not to use it.:mad: If I hear one moan from team india about any decision going against them I am going to lose it.

http://www.espncricinfo.com/south-africa-v-india-2010/content/story/489748.html

Nice quick wickets for the series, please.

[Wall]

why the hell must we not use the UDRS? we are the home team and it's our decision. When we were in India and we wanted to use it, did they agree? grrrrr

I hate the fact that the BCCI is becoming / if not already more powerful than the ICC

with that said, I look forward to some cracking games, hopefully we win so I can rub it in the faces of my parents, who always support India against us, and yes you guessed correctly, we indian.

[McT]

Nobody wants to upset the Indians. All too scared they'll take their money elsewhere or won't pay big bonuses to the cricket officials after the next IPL. Time our cricket officials exercised some backbone!

Sent from my GT-I9000 using MyBroadband Android App

[Wall]

Nobody wants to upset the Indians. All too scared they'll take their money elsewhere or won't pay big bonuses to the cricket officials after the next IPL. Time our cricket officials exercised some backbone!



could not agree more.

[Wall]

1 ) Smith
2 ) Alviro Peterson
3 ) Amla
4 ) Kallis
5 ) AB
6 ) Duminy
7 ) Boucher
8 ) Harris
9 ) Steyn
10 ) Morkel
11 ) Tsotosbe

the only places up for grabs are 6 ( Duminy / Prince) 8 ( Harris / Botha).

Tahir is not eligible yet. I can't wait for him to replace Harris in our squad.

[Mike Hoxbig]

why the hell must we not use the UDRS? we are the home team and it's our decision. When we were in India and we wanted to use it, did they agree? grrrrr

Both teams need to agree, and then the home team pays the bill.

With the recent SA vs Pakistan series, both teams wanted it but Pakistan didn't want to pay.

[Mike Hoxbig]

1 ) Smith
2 ) Alviro Peterson
3 ) Amla
4 ) Kallis
5 ) AB
6 ) Duminy
7 ) Boucher
8 ) Harris
9 ) Steyn
10 ) Morkel
11 ) Tsotosbe

the only places up for grabs are 6 ( Duminy / Prince) 8 ( Harris / Botha).

Tahir is not eligible yet. I can't wait for him to replace Harris in our squad.
1 ) Smith
2 ) A. Peterson
3 ) Amla
4 ) Kallis
5 ) AB
6 ) Duminy
7 ) Boucher/Prince/Tahir
8 ) Harris
9 ) Steyn
10 ) Morkel
11 ) Tsotosbe

I think we missed a trick in the recent series by not trying AB as keeper, seeing that a result was looking unlikely going into the second test. I can't wait for Tahir to become eligible too :)

[Wall]

1 ) Smith
2 ) A. Peterson
3 ) Amla
4 ) Kallis
5 ) AB
6 ) Duminy
7 ) Boucher/Prince/Tahir
8 ) Harris
9 ) Steyn
10 ) Morkel
11 ) Tsotosbe

I think we missed a trick in the recent series by not trying AB as keeper, seeing that a result was looking unlikely going into the second test. I can't wait for Tahir to become eligible too :)
I would prefer not to see AB keep in tests. his workload would too much and it will affect his batting.

[Mike Hoxbig]

I would prefer not to see AB keep in tests. his workload would too much and it will affect his batting.

I'm not entirely sure about that one, he's very fit. Gilchrist did the job quite well. The Aussies moved him down the order to compensate for the higher workload in tests, and I think that ABs batting position isn't too bad for a keeper-batsman.

[Wall]

I'm not entirely sure about that one, he's very fit. Gilchrist did the job quite well. The Aussies moved him down the order to compensate for the higher workload in tests, and I think that ABs batting position isn't too bad for a keeper-batsman.

I don't think he wants to. When Kallis retires, he is definitely moving up to 4. He has repeatedly said he wants to be the best in the world and for this reason I don't think it's wise.

[stefan9]

Both teams need to agree, and then the home team pays the bill.

With the recent SA vs Pakistan series, both teams wanted it but Pakistan didn't want to pay.

What I have read it its upto the homeboard in consultation with the touring team but the final call is the home sides.

Ofcourse pakistan wouldn't pay for it, they were hosted by the uae, it should have been the emirates board paying.

Ideally the ICC needs to get a global sponsor and solves this issue once and for all but well we know the icc.

[Bizkit87]

I'm not entirely sure about that one, he's very fit. Gilchrist did the job quite well. The Aussies moved him down the order to compensate for the higher workload in tests, and I think that ABs batting position isn't too bad for a keeper-batsman.

Remember, Gilchrist batted at 7 in all his test, because of the fact that he was the keeper.

It's mentally too tough to keep for 2 days, focus every ball, and then pad up, and wait to go out [sometimes within 10 overs?], remember, AB is a batsmen first, and we want to use him in the top 4. we must get a specialist keeper for test matches,

[midrange]

I don't think he wants to. When Kallis retires, he is definitely moving up to 4. He has repeatedly said he wants to be the best in the world and for this reason I don't think it's wise.

Agree. Though AB will probably be in his mid-thirties when Kallis retires. :)

[stefan9]

There's a reason when sangakarra only keeps in one day cricket and not anymore in test cricket. Its too tough for a top order batsmen, lower order like gilly maybe able to do it but your top batsman can't.

A few interesting selections coming up for the first test. The pitch will determine whether we go with a spinner or not. If we do go for a spinner its going to be harris with tahir's papers not being done yet.

For the third seamer is the difficult one. Parnell is totally out of form and lacking match fitness. Tsotsobe has done very in limited overs cricket but there is a rather big difference between test cricket and odi cricket and there remains question marks about whether he is good enough for that level, didn't do much in the west indies when he got his chance. Other options are friedel de wet,ryan mcclaren and ethy mbhalati.

For the batsmen the only question is really whether to stick with prince or give jp another go. This is presuming smith is fit, if he isn't I would look to rudolph.

[stefan9]

Squad picked. I presume tahir's papers aren't through yet and they are confident smith and amla will be fit hence no extra opener.

Side should be like this unless its a green top in which case mcclaren plays for harris.

1.Smith
2.Peterson
3.Amla
4.Kallis
5.AB
6.Prince
7.Boucher
8.Steyn
9.Harris
10.Morkel
11.Tsotsobe


McLaren named in SA Test squad to face India

ESPNcricinfo staff

December 3, 2010
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Ryan McLaren at a net session Antigua, May 18 2010
Ryan McLaren has been in impressive form in the SuperSport series © AFP
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Ryan McLaren has been named in South Africa's 15-man squad to face India in the first Test starting on December 16 in Centurion. The remainder of the squad is the same as the one that did duty in the two-Test series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates last month.

The selectors were originally going to announce a 12-man squad for all three Tests against India, so players who were not picked could concentrate on the round of SuperSport Series matches that start on the same day as the first Test, but changed their minds.

"We want to keep the squad together that played against Pakistan," Andrew Hudson, convenor of selectors, said. "McLaren has impressed in both formats of the domestic game played so far this season and has also come back into our thinking."

McLaren is the fifth highest wicket-taker in the SuperSport Series, with 14 wickets at an average of 20.57. He made his Test debut against England in January this year but has not played at that level since then. His inclusion will put pressure on Lonwabo Tsotsobe and Wayne Parnell, who are also competing for the role of the fourth seamer.

Although South Africa are likely to field only one spinner, in keeping with their traditional game-plan at home, they have included both Johan Botha and Paul Harris in the squad. Similarly, there was thought to be room for only one of Ashwell Prince or JP Duminy in the top six, but both are in the squad, presumably as cover for Graeme Smith and Hashim Amla, who are both injured.

Smith fractured the ring finger on his left hand while Amla suffered a contusion to his left forearm while fielding. Both injuries were sustained on the tour to the UAE but both men are expected to be fit for the first Test. Hudson said their response to treatment had been "very positive".

South Africa Test squad: Graeme Smith (capt), Hashim Amla, Johan Botha, Mark Boucher (wk), AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Paul Harris, Jacques Kallis, Ryan McLaren, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Alviro Petersen, Ashwell Prince, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe


http://www.espncricinfo.com/south-africa-v-india-2010/content/current/story/490306.html

[MickeyD]

The sooner they can sort out Tahir's papers the better. He must be brought into the Proteas squad for Tests and ODI's.

Test cricket is about bowling out your opposition twice. We are not succeeding with the current bowling line-up.

Preparing green-tops to favour our bowlers can seriously backfire on us.

[stefan9]

I believe we need to prepare quick bouncy tracks for this series not green tops. Green tops bring the indian seamers into. Bouncy tracks suit our bowlers and our batsmen, not so much their side based on history.

Hopefully Tahir's papers is finished by the time durban comes around. Watched him again yesterday vs the knights and was brilliant. The variation he has is just so much better then what either harris or botha offers. Having a legspinner that can turn the ball both ways is just invaluable.

[MickeyD]

Amen

[[Quattro]]

Stefan, you want to win a series or a WC?
Stupid to prepare a bouncy wicket... Will not help with the WC prep. The proteas typically do this, standard practice and then stuff up in the world cup...

Make it even, develop spin bowlers, by standardising hard bouncy wickets you destroying up and coming spin bowlers.

Anyway, go India!!! :D

[Mike Hoxbig]

;5179439']Stefan, you want to win a series or a WC?
Stupid to prepare a bouncy wicket... Will not help with the WC prep. The proteas typically do this, standard practice and then stuff up in the world cup...

A test series has f'all to do with the WC.

[stefan9]

;5179439']Stefan, you want to win a series or a WC?
Stupid to prepare a bouncy wicket... Will not help with the WC prep. The proteas typically do this, standard practice and then stuff up in the world cup...

Make it even, develop spin bowlers, by standardising hard bouncy wickets you destroying up and coming spin bowlers.

Anyway, go India!!! :D

What does the test picthes have to do with the wc preparation. The test series vs india is totally seperate from the wc preparation.

As for spin bowlers not liking bouncy tracks. I suggest you go and have a chat with one SK Warne and ask him if he liked pitches with bounce. He will tell you he loved bowling at the gabba and kingsmead because the bounce meant it was easier to get bat/pad dismissals as opposed on low tracks.;)

[[Quattro]]

Muscle memory, bowling style. Useless Mclaren and Morkel will think they can bowl. Then in sub continent they will fail.

Oh well.

[[Quattro]]

Warne was a brilliant bowler. A once off find, I doubt SA will find someone even half as good.

As for the wicket. SA will win the series as they always do. They'll be on the up, tails in the air, arrogant as ever till they fail in WC 2011 lol. Same sequence everytime, do the same thing time and time again expecting different results... I guess the R5000 and the free MTN phone is all they after.

[BRANDON69]

Just a question why is botha banned from bowling the d00sra and when will he be eligible to bowl the d00sra

[MickeyD]

Just a question why is botha banned from bowling the d00sra and when will he be eligible to bowl the d00sra
'cos his bowling arm deviates more than 15 degrees in the delivery action. This is unfair as it is FAR less than some other bowlers currently bowling.... and, of course, the world's top Test wicket-taker of all time.

[stefan9]

Problem is murali always tested within the 15 degrees, botha's ****ra doesn't. If he improves it he can go back and have it retested.


;5179659']Warne was a brilliant bowler. A once off find, I doubt SA will find someone even half as good.

As for the wicket. SA will win the series as they always do. They'll be on the up, tails in the air, arrogant as ever till they fail in WC 2011 lol. Same sequence everytime, do the same thing time and time again expecting different results... I guess the R5000 and the free MTN phone is all they after.

Totally missing the point as usual...The point is not whether warne is a better bowler then our spinners the point is spinners like bounce unlike what you claimed. Kingsmead bounces more then any track in SA, tahir is taking bucketloads on it...

[Wall]

the time is nearing. just over a week away now.

is it too soon to look at weather forecasts for the 5 days?

[stefan9]

the time is nearing. just over a week away now.

is it too soon to look at weather forecasts for the 5 days?

Should be fine, only been having the usual late afternoon,early evening thunderstorm. But this is centurion and cricket tends to attract rain...

[Wall]

Should be fine, only been having the usual late afternoon,early evening thunderstorm. But this is centurion and cricket tends to attract rain...

Yeah, Centurion always get rain during cricket matches.

anyways, let's keep our fingers crossed it stays away for 5 days.

[Wall]

Johannesburg – The South African bowlers won't be unleashed on a green mamba wicket in the first Test against India at SuperSport Park in Centurion.

"I'm definitely not going to prepare a pitch where the Test will be over within three days," said groundsman Hilbert Smith.

"But it will be a pitch that will definitely offer something for the bowlers on the first morning.”

"I want to prepare a pitch where it won't just be an automatic choice to bat if you win the toss," the experienced Titans groundsman told Sport24.

Of the 15 Tests that have been played there, SA has won 11.

They have lost only one, the controversial one against the English in 2000; three were drawn, also against England, with only one not influenced by rain.

He has already received a call from the South Africa coach, Corrie van Zyl, about what is required for December 16.

He didn't want to reveal, however, what Van Zyl requested for the first Test against (coach) Gary Kirsten's team, but said they spoke the same language and sang from the same hymn book.

"Look," says Smith, "everybody wants the ball to fly past the Indian batsman's ears because they are apparently vulnerable against short deliveries.

"But to make this happen, you need a lot of grass on the pitch.

"Then you can have a scenario where one team is bowled out for 120 while the other gets 150.

"Even an average seamer is then made to look world class.

"That is not what you want," he said.

"If we win the toss on that sort of a pitch and bowl them out cheaply, then I'm the hero, but think what could happen if the roles are reversed and they bowl us out cheaply.

"Then they demand your head and everyone wants to know what went wrong.

"I want to see that first session or that first morning playing a big role, because it’s then that there has to be something for the bowlers, and the batsmen will have to stand strong to survive.”

Smith said the weather a few days before the Test will also play a big role in how the pitch will look eventually.

According to him, it is also an extraordinary situation that the final of the MTN40 will be decided on Friday, only six days before the Test begins next Thursday.

This pitch and the Test pitch are next to each other.

The pitch for the Titans' battle against the Knights will be one for the batsmen, however, and the bowlers will have to work for their wickets.


Seems like we won't get a green top.

[Mike Hoxbig]

Seems like we won't get a green top.

I don't have a problem with that as it could backfire. As long as there's bounce and a bit of swing, it should work in our favour.

[Wall]

I don't have a problem with that as it could backfire. As long as there's bounce and a bit of swing, it should work in our favour.

yeah I am also happy that it's not a full green top. I want enough in the wicket to keep the bowlers encouraged and enough in it for batsman to make runs if they work hard.

[stefan9]

As long as its quick and has bounce then that's good. Bounce is the thing that has always troubled the indians.

[phoneJunky]

Hmm, Clive Rice favours the Indians to win this series. Hope he is wrong though.

[stefan9]

Hmm, Clive Rice favours the Indians to win this series. Hope he is wrong though.

Rice is pretty much always anti SA. He still holds a grudge. Hopefully it just motivates the boys more.

[[Quattro]]

MMmmmmmm India thrashed NZ, gonna be a good summer of cricket :)

[stefan9]

;5221853']MMmmmmmm India thrashed NZ, gonna be a good summer of cricket :)

So did bangladesh, india struggled to beat nz in the tests.;)

[[Quattro]]

Ye they struggled, they won the last one by an innings and 198 runs... Poor performance.

[MickeyD]

As long as its quick and has bounce then that's good. Bounce is the thing that has always troubled the indians.
Did you see the pace 'n bounce on the pitch last night during the MTN40 final? The Test strip is right alongside it!!! Looked naaaaice 'n green!

Teah I know they will shave a lot of it off, but the square of pitches cannot change character overnight...

[stefan9]

;5221963']Ye they struggled, they won the last one by an innings and 198 runs... Poor performance.

Considering this was nz, only winning 1-0 isn't great going... We will see what happens next week.


Did you see the pace 'n bounce on the pitch last night during the MTN40 final? The Test strip is right alongside it!!! Looked naaaaice 'n green!

Teah I know they will shave a lot of it off, but the square of pitches cannot change character overnight...

I did looked great. I hope Kepler is right in his opinion that the test pitch will have more grass then the one used last night. Can't wait to see dale bowling on such a pitch.

[stefan9]

Seems we will get a bouncy track. Weather reports seem to indicate some chances of showers for thursday and saturday with the other days cloudy.


Centurion pitch will have a 'bit of bounce'

Firdose Moonda

December 11, 2010
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A view of the SuperSport Park from the stands, South Africa v New Zealand, 2nd Test, Centurion, 2nd day, November 17, 2007
Dry weather could flatten out the Supersport Park track © ESPNcricinfo Ltd
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The Centurion pitch for the first Test between South Africa and India starting on December 16 will not be a trampoline, subject to the weather, the groundsman at Supersport Park, Hilbert Smith, has said. "It will have just a bit of bounce," Smith told ESPNcricinfo.

"But everything depends on the weather. If it stays hot, somewhere in the region of 34 degrees Celsius and the pitch dries out, then it will flatten out totally and then we will have a problem because we need some moisture to get bounce," Smith said.

South Africa have instructed Smith to prepare a track that will favour their pace attack. "I've been told to leave some grass on it, so there will be bounce. I've rolled some grass into the base for that," Smith said. He has to ensure a delicate balance between producing a pitch that will generate bounce and one that doesn't offer too much movement and the possibility of the match ending prematurely. "If I leave too much grass on the pitch, there will be too much movement and then the match could be over in three days and we don't want that. If it ends in four days, that will be fine, but ideally, I would like it to go the full five days."

Smith has also been told to leave no room for turn, all but negating the role of the spinner, who will, particularly in the case of someone like Paul Harris, be used to contain. However, bounce alone may be enough to excite the slow bowlers, particularly tall ones like Harris and Harbhajan Singh, according to former South African spinner Paul Adams. "Spinners just need the bounce to be able to deceive the batsmen," he said.

Smith said he has "done most of the Test pitch already" and, on Friday during the MTN40 final, it had quite a fair amount of grass on it, but he has had an interruption in his preparation. The domestic limited-overs final was played six days before the Test. It meant that Smith could not work on the Test pitch for two days, Thursday and Friday.

The Test pitch, number five on the square, is sandwiched between the MTN40 final pitch, number six, and the pitch used for the other MTN40 games, number four. "There will be a little bit of wear and tear on the Test pitch and the grass may come out a bit because of its position," Smith said. It's the first time Smith has had a domestic game played so soon before an international, and therefore he said he doesn't know what the effect will be on the Test pitch.

Luckily, the weather is expected to work to Smith's advantage. Although the mercury has topped 30 degrees Celsius for the past few days, it has rained on three of them. Rain is forecast all day for Sunday and Monday while clearing on Tuesday and returning on Wednesday night. Thursday, the first day of the Test, is also expected to be overcast and wet.


http://www.espncricinfo.com/south-africa-v-india-2010/content/current/story/491243.html

[[Quattro]]

Dravid warns Proteas

Cape Town – According to Rahul Dravid, South Africa could be making a big mistake if they intentionally prepare pitches beneficial to pace bowlers in the cricket series against India.

Rahul Dravid said on Wednesday India's seam bowlers also have the ability to make the most of ideal fast-bowling conditions.

The first Test in the series between the world's two top Test countries will begin next Thursday at Centurion.

The temptation will be big for South Africa's cricket experts to ask groundsmen for green pitches.

The Proteas, after all, boast bowlers of the calibre of Dale Steyn and Morné Morkel.

In addition, the Proteas over the past four years (twice against England in both recent Tests against Pakistan) have struggled to deliver the final knockout. This makes such a proposition even more tempting.

But Dravid, at the age of 37, one of the statesmen of the Indian team, believes this kind of strategy could backfire.

"It will be a very competitive series, but I believe if our seam bowlers Zaheer (Khan) and Ishant (Sharma) and Sreesanth can remain fit throughout the series, we will do very well," said Dravid on Wednesday at the Claremont club in Constantia.

Dravid was the only member of India's probable starter team for the first Test to be training at the Claremont club in Constantia on

Wednesday. The rest of the group arrived on Wednesday night and would hold a complete training session on Thursday morning.

The veteran did acknowledge, however, that it wouldn't be an easy Test series.

"South Africa is an excellent team, especially in South African conditions – and we will have to play excellent cricket to beat them."

But India's seam attack these days contains certain abilities; one of the reasons why the Indian team plays Test cricket with such confidence, says Dravid.

This stylish batsman was evasive, however, when he was asked whether a series defeat would mean that South Africa is the world's top Test-playing nation.

"No, we have shown in the last four or five years that we can play everywhere. We did well in Australia and England and have even won a Test here in South Africa on the last tour."

Dravid is well aware though that batsmen like Suresh Raina and Gautam Gambhir have never played Test cricket in South Africa.

They will have to survive a pace attack by the Proteas if India wants to be crowned the winner.

But Dravid believes the new generation of batsmen like Raina, Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara are much more prepared to achieve success in South African than when he was a young player on his first tour in South Africa in the 1996-97 season.

"Today's guys play much more outside India. Most of them were in South Africa either on A-team or U/19 tours and some of them have even played in the IPL (Indian Premier League) or the Champion's League," says Dravid.

[stefan9]

Dravid should rather concentrate on improving that super average of 33 in SA...


IPL, CLT20 experience will not help India - Corrie van Zyl

Firdose Moonda

December 13, 2010
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Corrie van Zyl gives catching practice, India v South Africa, 2nd Test, Kolkata, 2nd day, February 15, 2010
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Corrie van Zyl, the South Africa coach, does not think experience in Twenty20 events like the IPL or the Champions League will help Indian players handle the conditions in South Africa during their three-Test series which starts on Thursday in Centurion.

"When you play here as an IPL team or in the Champions League, you play on wickets that are a lot slower and flatter," van Zyl said at a press conference in Johannesburg. "They might feel a lot more comfortable touring because of those experiences, but in terms of conditions such as the pace and the bounce, I don't think they would have an advantage."

The Twenty20 tournaments - IPL 2009 and Champions League 2010 - were held in the months of April-May and September-October respectively, times when South African pitches are traditionally known to be slower. It's only in December and January that pace and bounce becomes a real factor and, for that reason, van Zyl thinks the Indians will have a lot of adapting to do. "It's not easy to get used to South African conditions if you haven't been playing in them for a while."

The South African media has been making threatening noises about how the hosts desire to exploit the home advantage and van Zyl rubber confirmed that view. "We are hopefully going to play on wickets that will benefit our style of play. There's been a lot of talk about pace and bounce and yes, that's what we would like to see from our South African wickets." With a pace attack that's spearheaded by Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel and an Indian line-up that's become known for its vulnerability against the short ball, the hosts' strategy is quite clear.

van Zyl is mindful of the fact that the Indian bowlers are looking forward to responsive wickets too and so he believes the real contest will be in which team and execute their plans best. "If we think that the Indians don't have bowlers that can bowl well on bouncy wickets then we are mistaken. It's about who handles the bounce and the pace the best."

The South African camp assembled in Johannesburg on Sunday and has been scheduled to begin training on Monday. Wet weather delayed their morning session by two hours, but they did manage to get some time on the field at the Wanderers.

Firdose Moonda is ESPNcricinfo's South Africa correspondent
RSS Feeds: Firdose Moonda

http://www.espncricinfo.com/south-africa-v-india-2010/content/current/story/491910.html

[Wall]

this was a really good read.


Dreamers are dangerous, and AB de Villiers is no exception. Arguably the most gifted South African sportsman of his generation, his reflexes and temperament are secondary to a defining ability to dream. When de Villiers dreams, he dreams big. He's capable of turning big dreams into monumental realities, and for opposition teams, therein lies the danger.

"All people dream, but not equally," begins de Villiers' favourite quote by Thomas Edward Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia. "Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the morning to find that it was vanity. But, the dreamers of the day are dangerous, for they dream their dreams with open eyes, and make them come true." Lawrence was a scholar, an archaeologist, a lieutenant-colonel in the British Army, and a prolific writer. It's little wonder that he'd resonate with de Villiers, a multi-talented individual with the drive to see his dreams to fruition. Some have been realised while others are still in the making. The beauty of dreaming is there are no limits.

The day-dreaming schoolboy always knew he'd represent South Africa. The only unknown was in which code. An excellent golfer and tennis player, a flyhalf for the Blue Bulls Craven Week team, and a member of the South Africa Under-19 cricket side, he eventually decided on cricket, graduating to the Proteas at the age of 20.

Six years on, and he still harbours an ambition to be the greatest cricketer of all time. He's currently the No. 1 batsman in the ODI format and 11th in the Test rankings. Not bad for a man of 26.

But there's more. With dreamers, there's always more. AB de Villiers and good friend Ampie du Preez released their first full-length album, Maak Jou Drome Waar (Make Your Dreams True), in 2010. It's not just a hobby or a Brett Lee-Bollywood piss-take either. de Villiers and du Preez aim to record more music in years to come.

You see, there was another side to that day-dreaming schoolboy, a musical side that was never completely eclipsed by his sporting obsession. He was the kid singing into his toothbrush, singing in the choir and in school plays. That side of de Villiers was never completely repressed, and when he received an opportunity to make his musical dream a reality, he thought, "Why not?"

"It's something separate from cricket, but it makes me feel good and gives me energy," he explains. "Cricket will always come first, but I do have two months of spare time in the off season. Rather than play county cricket in England, I prefer to concentrate on my music. I've always felt I could make this dream work."

His decision to invest in what's become more than a hobby corresponds to his rise as one of the Proteas' key cricketers. He was identified early on as an exciting talent, and when he performed, former management members Mickey Arthur and Jeremy Snape spoke about his potential as limitless. Consistency, they said, would allow him the platform to explore unchartered territory.

Before those portentous words were spoken in 2008, de Villiers was in a fight for his career. He was branded the next Herschelle Gibbs, a man with a rare talent that refused to be harnessed; a showman rather than a sportsman of substance. He needed to reassess. Greats like Graeme Pollock said he shouldn't forsake his adventurous streak, but stressed that he needed to find parity for his own and the Proteas' sake.

de Villiers averaged 58.04 from the beginning of the 2008-09 season to the start of the 2010 Test series against Pakistan. His growth as a player was marked by some big knocks and he featured prominently in the famous win over Australia. It was during this period that he announced himself as more than a dasher. He broke the Gibbs mould.

He went Down Under with the aim of scoring his first century against the trendsetting Australians. He was desperate to convert those promising 60s and 70s into a three-figure innings of substance. He succeeded, scoring one century in Australia and two more when the Aussies toured South Africa in early 2009. His strokeplay was a mix of the magnificent and the measured. de Villiers was suddenly a dreamer with direction.



"I want to be the best, but I don't give a damn about statistics. You will have your end goal in mind, but you have to work hard to get there; ball by ball, innings by innings"
Ab de Villiers is patiently ambitious

"People see what I achieved as a schoolboy in the different sports, and perhaps they think it all comes easy. But I've learnt you can't always succeed, and that failure can be important. "In 2006 and 2007, I went through a lean patch. I worked hard to correct my flaws, and I found a simpler approach that benefited my batting. I also stopped thinking about the big picture, and focused on the next ball.

"It became easier as I got older and more experienced. My understanding of my own game improved tremendously. My goal has always been to be the best and to ensure my team is the best. Those are goals that don't come easily."

His personal improvement coincided with a new responsibility. South Africa's captain Graeme Smith told de Villiers to forget the fact that he was 24 - he was now a senior player. He needed to start contributing to strategic meetings and on-field pow-wows. What at first seemed a burden became a boon, and the change in mindset also helped his individual game.

"It's easy to go out there and express yourself when the team isn't under pressure, but it's much harder to knuckle down and push for a vital 40 runs when the team is in trouble. Youngsters should be given the freedom to express themselves, but it becomes more of a balancing act as you get older. You have to sum up the situation and the conditions, and think about what you need to do in the next five balls.

"That's why I don't change much across the three formats; whether it's a Twenty20, an ODI or a Test match, my gameplan is the same. I make a few little adjustments, as you can't take 25 balls to play yourself in for a Twenty20 like you do in a Test. It's just about adjusting quicker, and there are periods where you'll look to dominate, and periods where you'll play more conservatively."

Snape, the former team psychologist and performance manager, says that two years ago, he felt it was his responsibility to perpetually challenge a player of de Villiers's aptitude. Snape and Arthur have since moved on, and the onus has fallen on the current management to keep de Villiers motivated. The player himself feels no need for a minder. He believes it's up to him to set new challenges and goals.


de Villiers is equally driven about his music career © Getty Images
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One would expect him to surpass a significant milestone this season. Apart from a rise in the international rankings, de Villiers is currently seventh on South Africa's all-time run-scoring list. Before the Pakistan Test series, he was 322 runs shy of the sixth-placed Daryll Cullinan, which means a good 2010-11 season will see him surpassing the classy right-hander.

The gap between now and the end of his career is substantial enough to suggest we're yet to see the best of him. Considering that Sachin Tendulkar (37) and Ricky Ponting (36) are still cracking centuries, de Villiers still has a decade at the highest level. He could well finish ahead of Jacques Kallis as South Africa's most prolific Test batsman.

So what does the dreamer think about the possibility of being South Africa's next great? The dream it seems, is more complicated than he first thought. de Villiers wants to be remembered for his attacking flair, but also wants to be remembered as the real deal. The realisation of this goal is something you won't measure in hundreds scored, but rather in specific knocks that win big matches.

"I want to be the best, but I don't give a damn about statistics," he says. "Awards and accolades are great as long as the team is doing well, but you can't set yourself the goal to be No. 1 or to be in the top three. You will have your end goal in mind, but you have to work hard to get there; ball by ball, innings by innings."

The statement goes to show that while de Villiers will always be a dreamer, he's matured to the point where he no longer believes greatness is a destination. It's an attitude that will serve him well.

source: http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/490550.html

[[Quattro]]

de Villiers is over rated. 1 big score and the journos are having a field day.

I say India will take this tournament.

[MickeyD]

The South Africa Test squad (of 12) has been finalised for the first Test:

Graeme Smith (capt), Hashim Amla, Mark Boucher (wk), AB de Villiers, Paul Harris, Jacques Kallis, Ryan McLaren, Morne Morkel, Alviro Petersen, Ashwell Prince, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe

Johan Botha, JP Duminy and Wayne Parnell have been released to play franchise games this weekend.

[SinghDude]

Paul is going to play a holding role and will tie up an end......

not so sure if he is going to get any wickets. Our pace attack is key, if Steyn and Morkel struggle we are farked.............

[stefan9]

Considering tahir doesn't qualify yet there is no real alternative to harris. Botha doesn't take more wickets as his fc record shows and he is more expensive. So till tahir qualifies it makes sense to pick harro.

Considering the fourth seamer I would pick mcclaren he seems to be going very well in the domestic stuff (both ss and pro 40). Lopsy just has never convinced me as a 4day bowler before anyone throws the uae odi performance in the mix.

But maybe with the weather we get a green top and we can play both.

[SinghDude]

I dont fancy mclaren, never did.Lopsy is a better bet for 3rd seamer.

[McT]

The South Africa Test squad (of 12) has been finalised for the first Test:

Graeme Smith (capt), Hashim Amla, Mark Boucher (wk), AB de Villiers, Paul Harris, Jacques Kallis, Ryan McLaren, Morne Morkel, Alviro Petersen, Ashwell Prince, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe

Johan Botha, JP Duminy and Wayne Parnell have been released to play franchise games this weekend.

A good squad, but we must play Harris ;)

[stefan9]

Massive blow for india if zaheer can't play the first test or plays half fit.


Doubts remain over Zaheer Khan's fitness

Sidharth Monga in Centurion

December 13, 2010
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Zaheer Khan removed Tim McIntosh for a duck, India v New Zealand, 1st Test, Ahmedabad, 5th day, November 8, 2010
Still an uncertainty for the first Test on December 16 © AFP
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Players/Officials: Zaheer Khan
Series/Tournaments: India tour of South Africa
Teams: India

India looked a side at comfort with itself during their first full practice session with the whole squad for the Tests, but there was cause for concern with Zaheer Khan choosing to go through just fitness drills due to what seems like a hamstring injury. ESPNcricinfo understands that the scans have failed to pick anything, but neither Zaheer nor the team wants to risk aggravating the injury.

"As of now he is not [fit]," a team source told ESPNcricinfo. "There are still three days to go to the Test, so we didn't want to take any risks." So, even as the rest of the team had a good workout in the nets at the Supersport Park in Centurion, Zaheer spent time with Paul Chapman, the team physio. He went through the light fitness drill gingerly, often holding on to the groin area.

It could be an injury picked up during the fourth ODI against New Zealand, in Bangalore. As he finished the 49th over of the New Zealand innings - only his eighth in the match - Zaheer went back holding on to the groin area. Then Zaheer was making a comeback from a groin injury that had him miss the third Test and the first two ODIs against New Zealand. He also didn't feature in the fifth and final ODI in Chennai.

This hasn't been a good year for Zaheer's body. He missed the whole of the tour of Sri Lanka with an injury to the same shoulder that was operated on two years ago. He started his comeback through the Champions League Twenty20 in South Africa and did well in the home Tests against Australia before getting injured again.

The team is hopeful Zaheer will make it to the first Test starting Thursday, but, should he be ruled out, India have Umesh Yadav and Jaydev Unadkat to choose from - unless they want to go with two spinners, in which case Pragyan Ojha will come in.

[phoneJunky]

Only two more days to go. Can't wait. I want to see the effect that gary kirsten had on the indian team. And the battle between sachin and dale. Hope dale will be at his best. At times he looked really good against the paki's but then he also looked really out of it for a large part aswell. Out of it for him i mean. Will be a cracker though.

[SinghDude]

Only two more days to go. Can't wait. I want to see the effect that gary kirsten had on the indian team. And the battle between sachin and dale. Hope dale will be at his best. At times he looked really good against the paki's but then he also looked really out of it for a large part aswell. Out of it for him i mean. Will be a cracker though.

Gary has made them no1 ranked Test team in the world.

Most of the Indian player's concur.

[midrange]

Steyn takes time to come back from injury, saw that last season against England. If he and Morkel fire we should take the series. As for the third seamer, McClaren offers the benefit of batting, but I think Lopsy is likely to take more wickets.

If there are cloudy conditions on Thursday morning and we win the toss, would you bowl first?

[stefan9]

Steyn takes time to come back from injury, saw that last season against England. If he and Morkel fire we should take the series. As for the third seamer, McClaren offers the benefit of batting, but I think Lopsy is likely to take more wickets.

If there are cloudy conditions on Thursday morning and we win the toss, would you bowl first?

Depends on the pitch. If its a green top, yes. If its just a normal centurion test pitch then I would bat first.


Steyn takes time to come back from injury, saw that last season against England. If he and Morkel fire we should take the series. As for the third seamer, McClaren offers the benefit of batting, but I think Lopsy is likely to take more wickets.

If there are cloudy conditions on Thursday morning and we win the toss, would you bowl first?

Dale seemed to be getting back into rhythm during the last test vs pak. He should be fine, starting thursday.

Don't agree on lopsy and mcclaren, their first class records is very similiar.

Only thing is mcclaren is good with the old ball while lopsy isn't. That's why I would pick ryan ahead of him because neither is getting the new ball with steyn and morne in the team.

[midrange]

Only thing is mcclaren is good with the old ball while lopsy isn't.

Fair enough point.

[McT]

Only two more days to go. Can't wait. I want to see the effect that gary kirsten had on the indian team. And the battle between sachin and dale. Hope dale will be at his best. At times he looked really good against the paki's but then he also looked really out of it for a large part aswell. Out of it for him i mean. Will be a cracker though.

Agreed. Both teams come off easy test series. Both seem to be on the up (as fast as performance goes). And I'm on hols from tomorrow, so plenty of time to be transfixed :)

[midrange]

FFS, are the SABC really not showing the Tests?

[stefan9]

They are but they aren't the host broadcaster anymore. They will be getting the feed from super sport.

Super sport will be providing all the tech , from hawkeye,snicko, ultramotion, ect. Not sure about hotspot but everything else will be there. Also for us with hd it will be on sshd.

Ss won the contract for the next 5 years this week.

[midrange]

They are but they aren't the host broadcaster anymore.

Ah, good. I just checked the tv guide on iol for Thursday and there was no mention of cricket.

[MickeyD]

Ah, good. I just checked the tv guide on iol for Thursday and there was no mention of cricket.
NEVER trust a SABC TV guide!!!

[Wall]

1 day to go. I heard some rumours that ishant was injured during training. can someone confirm this?

[mercury12]

In India atm. Very cool ad on the local sports channel showing various south africans saying "we are waiting" ( ....to beat India). Surprised they show it here

[SinghDude]

In India, cricket is a religion.

[midrange]

NEVER trust a SABC TV guide!!!

It had me very concerned, since I don't have DSTV. I was making plans to take my laptop to a bar, but being a broke-ass freelancer, they would've thrown me out after the second time I ordered a glass of water.

When are they announcing the starting XI?

[Wall]

It had me very concerned, since I don't have DSTV. I was making plans to take my laptop to a bar, but being a broke-ass freelancer, they would've thrown me out after the second time I ordered a glass of water.

When are they announcing the starting XI?

our team is most likely going to be:
smith
peterson
Amla
Kallis
AB
Prince
Boucher
Harris
Steyn
Morkel
Lopsy

[Khanya]

Hmm. Not a ball bowled, and already this thread is nearing a thousand views and 5+ pages. Can't wait for South Africa to humiliate India.

[Khanya]

SABC 3 ALWAYS aires live home games. Although 20/20's day/night are not live. I'll be watching it on DSTV anyways, it has a superior display/view that SABC.

[midrange]

SABC 3 ALWAYS aires live home games.

There was a lot of talk recently that they wouldn't show the Tests.

[SinghDude]

Hmm. Not a ball bowled, and already this thread is nearing a thousand views and 5+ pages. Can't wait for South Africa to humiliate India.

Its not going to be that easy.

Their pace attack can't be written off.

I think the toss is going to be a huge factor. If overcast conditions persist, you will want to bowl first. Best batting days should be late day2 and day 3.

Its going to be a thrilling series.

[Wall]

agreed, conditions will determine what the winning captain of the toss does.

[MickeyD]

When are they announcing the starting XI?
Just before the toss of the coin!

[Synaesthesia]

I wonder if Tahir will ever play for SA.

[Wall]

I wonder if Tahir will ever play for SA.

he's a shoe-in the minute we get his paperwork sorted out. last i heard was he will be legally allowed to play from sometime in december.

[stefan9]

1 day to go. I heard some rumours that ishant was injured during training. can someone confirm this?

Zaheer is very doudtfull which is even a bigger blow for them. Both sharma and sreesanth are very erratic and the other two in the squad very untried.

Hopefully the rain stays away. It was raining quite a bit earlier today, stopped now. Weather report says chance of rain tomorrow and monday with the other 3 days clear.

[zulgin]

going to watch the cricket tomorrow got a free ticket in the President's suite :D, that is if the drain doesn't stop it :(

[MickeyD]

going to watch the cricket tomorrow got a free ticket in the President's suite :D, that is if the drain doesn't stop it :(
If you see Pietie (see pic in link below) tell him his mate from Pirates in PE sends his regards!
http://www.titans.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57:christie-vlok-award&catid=40:titans-news&Itemid=50

[zulgin]

If you see Pietie (see pic in link below) tell him his mate from Pirates in PE sends his regards!
http://www.titans.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57:christie-vlok-award&catid=40:titans-news&Itemid=50

jong ek kan hom nie vertel dat sy meid groete stuur nie :D, maar ek sal so maak!

[MickeyD]

jong ek kan hom nie vertel dat sy meid groete stuur nie :D, maar ek sal so maak!
As jy hom ontmoet vra vir hom oor hoe hy vir Graeme Pollock altyd uitgeboul het in die 70's!!! Ware verhaal...

[zulgin]

As jy hom ontmoet vra vir hom oor hoe hy vir Graeme Pollock altyd uitgeboul het in die 70's!!! Ware verhaal...

LoL ek neem aan dit is een van daai stories wat hy niemand ooit sal laat vergeet nie :)

ja nee kyk, tot en met onlangs was ek 'n groter aanhanger en ondersteuner gewees as wat ek van Rugby was, maar nou ja sedert ons chocker era wis ek maar min deesdae van die spel. Ek wens ons kan weer daai Currie Beker Trots terug kry, wat het van hom geword in alle geval? Seker gesteel! Toe ek laas in Centurion Krieket gaan kyk het was dit nog Verwoerdburg gewees!

[Khanya]

How's it in Centurion? Hear on ETV News that is raining cats and dogs.

[BigAl-sa]

How's it in Centurion? Hear on ETV News that is raining cats and dogs.

It's pouring. We've had more than 100mm overnight, so the outfield will be like a wet sponge.

[edit]
Just found this on News24 (http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Rain-leaves-Gauteng-roads-flooded-20101216):

He said that although there had been no immediate reports of flooding, the Hennops River in Centurion and the Apies River in Pretoria North were being closely monitored as were certain areas of Hammanskraal.

Hennops in Centurion flows past the western end of Centurion Park :(

[Khanya]

Well... It's not a day without cricket at least. I've got the Ashes to compensate it with.

[Pegasus]

SABC 3 times are here:

http://www.sabc.co.za/wps/portal/SABC/SABCARTICLE?id=e110130044d341918327efa0257d02f6&page_from=PRESS

[Wall]

i was watchin sabc 3 and it really is bucketing out there. hopefully we get a few overs in tonight. i can only see play starting after 2pm.

[sand_man]

i was watchin sabc 3 and it really is bucketing out there. hopefully we get a few overs in tonight. i can only see play starting after 2pm.That would be nice but I would be very surprised if there is play today. It has been seriously pissing down here the last couple of days...

[Wall]

i just read on cricinfo that the groundsman says that play can start 3 hours after the rain stops. the problem is the rain needs to stop.

also the pitch is being covered with a tent and heaters are on. Mike Haysman says it's like a sauna in the tent so the pitch should be fine.

Centurion does have one of the best drainage systems in world cricket so i am hopeful. just needs rain to stop.

[Wall]

cricinfo just reported it stopped raining and it seems to be clearing up :D it's brighter

[zulgin]

its still raining here in PTA :( I guess I won't be seeing any cricket today.

[BigAl-sa]

its still raining here in PTA :( I guess I won't be seeing any cricket today.

It's not raining where I am, and it actually looks quite bright at the moment.

[zulgin]

It's not raining where I am, and it actually looks quite bright at the moment.

it just stopped here in the east, however it is still very cloudy, does anyone know when/if play resumes? I'm not going to bother going to the ground for half and hour's play.

[killadoob]

Rain has stopped but surely the outfield must be soaked? There is more rain to come, only finishing on sunday if the weather okes are right this test is done.

[MickeyD]

Anyone bet against it being a DRAW?

[cr@zydude]

Anyone bet against it being a DRAW?

They could always turn it into a single innings each. ;)





I just had to. :p

[MickeyD]

They could always turn it into a single innings each. ;)
If the match was extremely important for either side to claim mega-dollars or a championship prize, then they could declare their first innings' after a single ball and go for an outright result.

But, being the First Test this is not likely!




PS. I know you were joking!

[sand_man]

Wow, play is imminent!!! Now wouldn't it be legendary if they decided to make day 1 a day/night for the 1st time in test history??? Come on.... Do something innovative gentlemen...

[satanboy]

Just switched on Supersport HD1...wow I still get blown away by the picture quality every time.

[sand_man]

Surely one has to bowl 1st on this track...??

[sand_man]

This 1st session will show why India will only remain the worlds number 1 side playing on the sub continent....

[killadoob]

This 1st session will show why India will only remain the worlds number 1 side playing on the sub continent....

I would not under estimate them but i hope you are right. Got some serious talent in their ranks.

[MickeyD]

Yes!!!!!!

India 1-1

Sehwag - duck!!!

[sand_man]

Why the hell no review system. Ducking umpire already got one wrong. Steve Davis you chump!!!!!!

[MickeyD]

Why the hell no review system. Ducking umpire already got one wrong. Steve Davis you chump!!!!!!
India were not in favour of the review system.

And it was pretty obvious as well... what else could have made the sound?????

Now we know why!!!

[MickeyD]

Deserved wickets for Morne Morkel!!!

India 27-3

Morkel has Gambhir and Dravid!

[battletoad]

one more wicket and SA has this session all sewn up!

btw Dravid was Morkel's 100th test wicket

[MickeyD]

India 67-5
Morkel 2
Steyn 2
Kallis 1 (must be the new hair!!!)

[sand_man]

Bwahahaha. I love it!!!

[mezu]

India 67-5
Morkel 2
Steyn 2
Kallis 1 (must be the new hair!!!)

Kallis has got new hair??? :eek::eek:

Otherwise, awesome news, I am stuck with Radio 2000 today. Bloody decoder is jammed :cry:

[MickeyD]

India 80-6
Morkel 2
Steyn 3
Kallis 1

[R13...]

Harbhajan could become a problem

[R13...]

Ok, no problem. Run out:)

[Khanya]

Brilliant blinder by Boucher to dismiss Harbajan, the prominent danger man! I see us bundling them out for 180.

[MickeyD]

India 110-8
Morkel 3
Steyn 3
Kallis 1
Run out 1

[Khanya]

Another wicket! I take it back! We can bundle them for 140! Dhoni being the only barricade.

[BigAl-sa]

Brilliant blinder by Boucher to dismiss Harbajan, the prominent danger man! I see us bundling them out for 180.

110/8, you're being optimistic with 180 :D

[MickeyD]

Anyone bet against it being a DRAW?

I might have to eat my words!!!

[Synaesthesia]

Things going swimmingly, just need to get Dhoni out, he's the last man who can score some runs.

[sand_man]

Rolling them but it's not going to be pleasant for the SA openers to face 10 odd overs tonight under failing light.

[R13...]

Tsotsobe in the Xmas spirit

[MickeyD]

SA won the toss and elected to field.

India 136-9
G Gambhir c Harris b M Morkel - 5
V Sehwag c HM Amla b Steyn - 0
R Dravid lbw b M Morkel - 14
SR Tendulkar lbw b Steyn - 36
VVS Laxman b Steyn - 7
SK Raina c Prince b Kallis - 1
MS Dhoni not out - 33
Harbhajan Singh run out (Petersen) - 27
I Sharma c Kallis b M Morkel - 0
S Sreesanth c Steyn b M Morkel - 0
JD Unadkat not out - 1

Bowling O-M-R-W
Steyn: 10-1-34-3
M Morkel: 12.1-5-20-4
Tsotsobe: 9-2-50-0
Kallis: 6-1-20-1
Harris: 1-0-6-0

Close of Play - Day 1

[Khanya]

Lopsy, eish... Well, Dhoni is going along nicely. This match being a draw? No ways.

[Khanya]

I don't think South Africa will be batting tonight.

[Rosaudio]

Great performance from the boys. Let's hope we bat well tomorrow and not collapse much like India did

[zulgin]

Lekker game gewees, just came back from the stadium :)

[MickeyD]

Lekker game gewees, just came back from the stadium :)
Hoe is die paaie?

[zulgin]

Hoe is die paaie?

die media oordryf man, ek het lynwood, Botha, Station, Jean south Omgerui, geen probleem gehad nie. Daar het niks eers opgedamp nie, hulle praat nonsins!

[McT]

What a fantastic start with 9 skittles today :D

I'm not able to watch the game on telly :( but am following it on internet through CricInfo. Seen some of the Indian fans writing into CricInfo wishing the rain back :D

We now have three luxury of time to bat ;)

[yebocan]

can superport pls upgrade the graphics they using for the SA vs Indian intro ,its jackass poor,seriously'

[stefan9]

Lovely stuff from the SA boys. India again showed how much they love pace and bounce... Lopsy unfortuantly showed why I am not convinced about him as a test bowler, needs a big second innings else need to consider mcclaren, parnell or de wet for durban.

If the weather stays as it is we should get the best of the batting conditions. Zak will be a big miss for india.

[Wall]

cracking performance by Steyn & Morkel.

hopefully we get the last wicket fairly quickly and then we can put on a big score on the board.

wasn't convinced by Lopsy and he needs to a good 2nd innings or his place will be gone.

what is the weather forecast for today?

[McT]

It would be a huge if we bat well and post a decent lead ;)

[stefan9]

Sunhine for next 2 days. Late afternoon thunder storms for the last 2 days.

[MickeyD]

wasn't convinced by Lopsy and he needs to a good 2nd innings or his place will be gone.
Agreed!

[Khanya]

12/25. Mostly Sunshine. Mild. 40% Humidity. 0% Rain.

[Wall]

12/25. Mostly Sunshine. Mild. 40% Humidity. 0% Rain.

that's awesome :D:D

[McT]

12/25. Mostly Sunshine. Mild. 40% Humidity. 0% Rain.

Nice! A full days play. By the end we will know which way the game is heading.

[R13...]

All out without adding to the overnight score:)

[MickeyD]

SA won the toss and elected to field.

India: 1st Innings 136 all out
G Gambhir c Harris b M Morkel - 5
V Sehwag c HM Amla b Steyn - 0
R Dravid lbw b M Morkel - 14
SR Tendulkar lbw b Steyn - 36
VVS Laxman b Steyn - 7
SK Raina c Prince b Kallis - 1
MS Dhoni lbw M Morkel - 33
Harbhajan Singh run out (Petersen) - 27
I Sharma c Kallis b M Morkel - 0
S Sreesanth c Steyn b M Morkel - 0
JD Unadkat not out - 1

Bowling O-M-R-W
Steyn: 10-1-34-3
M Morkel: 12.4-5-20-5
Tsotsobe: 9-2-50-0
Kallis: 6-1-20-1
Harris: 1-0-6-0

South Africa: 1st Innings 95-0
Smith not out - 53
Peterson not out - 38

[Wall]

47/0

great play by SA. keeping it tight and taking the shine of the ball.

keep wickets in hand. Runs will come easier after lunch.

we could end up with a big total and possibly an innings victory.

[MickeyD]

Smith 57*

SA 99-0

[MickeyD]

Nelson strikes.... 111-1

Smith out for 62

[jvk]

ok someone please fill me in..... who the Hell is LOPSY ???

[Wall]

Peterson out 166/2

[Wall]

ok someone please fill me in..... who the Hell is LOPSY ???

Lonwabo Tsotsobe

[MickeyD]

SA won the toss and elected to field.

India: 1st Innings 136 all out
(Tendulkar 36, MS Dhoni 33)
(Steyn: 10-1-34-3, M Morkel: 12.4-5-20-5)

South Africa: 1st Innings 366-2 off 87 overs
Graeme Smith c Dhoni b Harbhajan - 62
Alviro Petersen c Gambhir b Harbhajan - 77
Hashim Amla not out - 116
Jacques Kallis not out - 102

Harbhajan 2-107

SA leads by 230 runs.

Close of Play - Day 2

[MickeyD]

Amla and Kallis both have centuries at Centurion!

[BigAl-sa]

I wonder where are the [quattro]/jk8/mamjyot personas now :D

[Khanya]

Seems the close will be 18:00.

[MickeyD]

Seems the close will be 18:00.
Strange, was sure I heard 18h30, but then again they started 30 minutes earlier!

Awesome batting display by SA coupled with a lacklustre Indian bowling performance.

[Khanya]

Nice and fast 3rd wicket partnership. We need to lead by 600 mid day 4. And let them bat in the latter part of day 4 and 5.

[MickeyD]

Bat the whole of tomorrow and declare overnight, regardless of the score/target. Then we 2 days in which to bowl India out.

[Khanya]

Yeah. Then we need to really accelerate tomorrow. Atleast go at 4.5 an over or even more.

[MickeyD]

Yeah. Then we need to really accelerate tomorrow. Atleast go at 4.5 an over or even more.
ummmmm, we went at 4,2 rpo today!!!

Another 90 overs at 4 rpo and that's 590 lead!

[phoneJunky]

I think a lead of 400 will be fine to bowl out the indians. We shouldnt bat longer than tomorrow. I think we should declare at tea tomorrow.

[McT]

I think a lead of 400 will be fine to bowl out the indians. We shouldnt bat longer than tomorrow. I think we should declare at tea tomorrow.

400? Based on their dismal first innings performance, they could declare now and it'll be all over by Tea :D

[Khanya]

We all know how Hashim can crawl after a century... Waiting for a wave from Smith...

[McT]

Amla and Kallis both have centuries at Centurion!

Gr8 performance by the two. And Kallis on 38 centuries looks set to go all time second behind SRT and ahead of Punter :)

[MickeyD]

We all know how Hashim can crawl after a century... Waiting for a wave from Smith...
Not today... Kallis got to his 100 while Amla was on 98.

Since then Kallis moved to 102 and Amla to 116!

[stefan9]

Brilliant batting by the SA boys. Cruelly exposed india's lack of pace.

[Khanya]

Do you think Kallis can be the leading Centurion of all time? He's on 39. Probably got 4 more years or so. The little master is sitting on 49 currently got 2 more or so. Big question: Can he get a double on day 3?

[phoneJunky]

This will probably be kallis' best chance to get a double in a while. Hope he gets it.

[McT]

Not today... Kallis got to his 100 while Amla was on 98.

Since then Kallis moved to 102 and Amla to 116!

it would be great to see both get their doubles tomorrow ... just wish I could get to see it on telly

cricinfo on my cellphone is chewing data :(

[zulgin]

I wonder if they are going to fine Kotie Grove for his outspoken comments: "Ek seg jou, Riana sou nie eers die 2de liga by die klubspan as bouler waar ek betrokke is nie"

I would say we can declare with 300 ahead, then boul them out, make them play shots,

[MickeyD]

I wonder if they are going to fine Kotie Grove for his outspoken comments: "Ek seg jou, Riana sou nie eers die 2de liga by die klubspan as bouler waar ek betrokke is nie"
I would say we can declare with 300 ahead, then boul them out, make them play shots,
Bwahahaha! My heel eerste wedstryd in '83 vir UPE was in Kotie Grove en Pottie Potgieter se span - in die PE tweede liga!!!

[MickeyD]

SA won the toss and elected to field.

India: 1st Innings 136 all out
(Tendulkar 36, MS Dhoni 33)
(Steyn: 10-1-34-3, M Morkel: 12.4-5-20-5)

South Africa: 1st Innings 620-4 off 130.1 overs
Graeme Smith c Dhoni b Harbhajan - 62
Alviro Petersen c Gambhir b Harbhajan - 77
Hashim Amla c Dhini b Sharma - 140
Jacques Kallis not out - 201
AB de Villiers c Dhoni b Sharma 129

Harbhajan 2-169
Sharma 2-120

SA lead by 484 runs.

[midrange]

AB playing a T20 innings here.

R/R today: 5.85

[Synaesthesia]

I hope Kallis reaches his double-hundred.

[killadoob]

Come on kallis!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

F me the man deserves to be in the double ton league :eek:. Come on!!!!!!!!

[midrange]

haha, AB 100 off 75 balls. Fastest century by a South African.

[MickeyD]

Donner!!!!

AB - brilliant!!!

And Kallis is joining in...

556-3

[Juggy]

I actually do not know what to say about that innings of AB. The man is fearless, absolutely awesome.

And yes, Kallis deserves to a double tonne.

[BigAl-sa]

;5231291']de Villiers is over rated. 1 big score and the journos are having a field day.

De Villiers, fastest test 100 by a South African. Eat your words :D

[McT]

Should not be jinxing Kallis, but this is as good an opportunity as ever.

I am a nervous wreck for the dude!

Indian bowling looks worse than Boycott's granny's bowling :D

[McT]

25 runs to go ...

/chews finger nails

[midrange]

225 runs in the session, run-rate of 6.25

[McT]

18 to go...

/chews toe nails :sick:

[McT]

225 runs in the session, run-rate of 6.25

domination was never so eina! :o

[McT]

lunchtime ... I'll be devoid of all nails (toe included) by the time get out there again

[Synaesthesia]

Guys this reminds me of the Australian team and Gilchrist demolishing SA at the wanderers in 2002
http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/63978.html

[midrange]

I thought the run-rate would slow when Hash went out - how wrong was I!

[Mike Hoxbig]

The "number 1" team is being shown their ass :D

Welcome to life outside the subcontinent!

[McT]

I thought the run-rate would slow when Hash went out - how wrong was I!

Yeah, AB made short work of your fear ... and he's in the form of his life :)

[McT]

The "number 1" team is being shown their ass :D

Welcome to life outside the subcontinent!

They could never truly own that status playing on lifeless tracks in their own back yard.

It will be interesting to see if they have the BMT to come back from this in their second innings, which looks likely to be before Tea today.

[Mike Hoxbig]

They could never truly own that status playing on lifeless tracks in their own back yard.

It will be interesting to see if they have the BMT to come back from this in their second innings, which looks likely to be before Tea today.
I think they're waiting for Jacques to get his double before declaring, and then a 500 lead. So it's looking to be about an hour after lunch.

[MickeyD]

I also have to adjust my declaration projection from close of play today to Tea Time today.

[midrange]

Rain's coming in...

[McT]

I think they're waiting for Jacques to get his double before declaring, and then a 500 lead. So it's looking to be about an hour after lunch.

I agree.

My finger & toe nails are all gone now.

/looks for something else to chew

[McT]

Rain's coming in...

Worst! :eek:

[midrange]

Worst! :eek:

Kallis gets his double-ton, we declare, India go in under clouds, ball swings... :)

[McT]

This is what Indian fans are saying on CricInfo (http://www.espncricinfo.com/south-africa-v-india-2010/engine/current/match/463146.html):

"Indian tours to SA must come with Parental Advisory"

"They way SA are trashing India, I am surprised the scoreboard isn't ticking along during lunch."

"How long until CricInfo starts to publish things like "India are trailing Hashim Amla by 4 runs" and other things along those lines?"

[McT]

Kallis gets his double-ton, we declare, India go in under clouds, ball swings... :)

...and I'll be having a double tot of something :D

[Rosaudio]

All the BCCI needs to do is organise a 15 match test series in SL to make sure they remain at number 1

[Khanya]

Run rate between Kallis and de Villiers nice and fast. At 6.14.

[McT]

All the BCCI needs to do is organise a 15 match test series in SL to make sure they remain at number 1

Or perhaps invite Bangladesh and Zimbabwe for a test tour or two somewhere in the sub-continent? :)

[stefan9]

All the BCCI needs to do is organise a 15 match test series in SL to make sure they remain at number 1

Nah they can't beat sri lanka in sri lanka either. They need tours to bangladesh or new zealand...

Well played by the boys even if its against a powderpuff bowling attack.

[midrange]

3 more...

*bites dog's nails*

[McT]

3 to go...

/primes glass :D

[sand_man]

Ooooh so close now!!!!! Come now Kallis you legend!!!!!

[McT]

3 more...

*bites dog's nails*

And I thought I was the only genuinely nervous wreck :)

[midrange]

woohoo!

[sand_man]

Epic!!!!!!!!!

[sand_man]

Epic!!!!!!

[sand_man]

Epic!!!!!

[MickeyD]

King Kallis !!!

AB out - SA declares!!!!!

[McT]

Whattaplaya! :D

/toasts to Kallis

/heads off to open the TK bar


Unadkat to Kallis, FOUR, 132.4 kph, Ladies and gentlemen, Kallis has made 200 at long last! Atherton.. Mark Waugh.. Stewart.. Azharuddin - Kallis has left you behind. He's graduated to the 200-club. Unadkat does his bit for the cause with a length ball sprayed down the leg side. Kallis gets inside the line and glances it. You can sense the relief in the man as that purrs away, the last few inevitable yards, towards the fence. AB looks just as pleased. The crowd roars. Kallis you beauty!

[Synaesthesia]

Been many many years coming this one

[midrange]

Declaration. Right move.

[McT]

Declaration. Right move.

Let the ten-pins fall.

[Khanya]

50 overs left in the day!

[MickeyD]

SA won the toss and elected to field.

India: 1st Innings 136 all out
(Tendulkar 36, MS Dhoni 33)
(Steyn: 10-1-34-3, M Morkel: 12.4-5-20-5)

South Africa: 1st Innings 620-4 decl
(Smith 62, Petersen 77, Amla 140, Kallis 201*, AB 129)
(Harbhajan 2-169, Sharma 2-120)

SA lead by 484 runs.

[midrange]

Go on Virender, flash outside off.

[Rosaudio]

Isn't it amazing what hair can do to you :)

[sand_man]

Really enjoying Shaun Pollocks commentating.

[midrange]

Not sure about Tsotsobe as the 3rd seamer. Parnell has no form, so what other young 'uns are about?

[Synaesthesia]

Sehwag looking in scary good form.

[midrange]

Sehwag looking in scary good form.

Dropped by Amla :(

Ball was going at 447km/ph though.

[Khanya]

Everything just not going well for Lopsy.

[MickeyD]

Everything just not going well for Lopsy.
He has Sehwag playing and missing and then edging him through slips / gully - very frustrating!!

/sees that JP got 200 not out (off 201 balls) vs the Dolphins...

[midrange]

/sees that JP got 200 not out (off 201 balls) vs the Dolphins...

Wow.

[killadoob]

So are our bowlers also not trying like the indian bowlers?

Pollock is such a chop sometimes, this is a batting paradise and he says it was a mental thing.

[midrange]

Poor from Petersen :(

[sand_man]

Harris as usual no more than a passenger in this team. I'll never understand why the selectors persist with him. His contribution in this test, 2 overs. Passenger.

[midrange]

Harris as usual no more than a passenger in this team. I'll never understand why the selectors persist with him. His contribution in this test, 2 overs. Passenger.

Um, why would he bowl when the pitch is seaming in the 1st innings and the ball is new in the 2nd?

[The_Pumpkin_King]

Was just about to ask what is the purpose of Harris

[killadoob]

Um, why would he bowl when the pitch is seaming in the 1st innings and the ball is new in the 2nd?

Why would you include him in the team if you are not going to use him? surely that is the burning question? This pitch was never going to be spin friendly so why pick him?

[sand_man]

Um, why would he bowl when the pitch is seaming in the 1st innings and the ball is new in the 2nd?And that's my point. Unless conditions suit he won't make an impact and even when they do he seldom makes much of an impact. UAE series case in point. His only other function is as night watchmen and he is the weakest fielder in the team currently. Mclaren would have more to offer quite frankly. In fact I would rather see jp and Graeme share the spinning duties rather than having a specialist spinner who at best is mediocre.

[sand_man]

Why isn't johan in the test squad? He can bat a bit is a great fielder and a better spinner than Harris.

[The_Pumpkin_King]

Botha is injured, I think

[MickeyD]

Botha is injured, I think
Nope, he's captaining Warriors vs Knights...

[The_Pumpkin_King]

Then the selectors are as useless as ever

[midrange]

Why would you include him in the team if you are not going to use him? surely that is the burning question? This pitch was never going to be spin friendly so why pick him?

Spinners normally come in to play when the pitch starts breaking up, days 4 and 5. (Not that I'd necessarily call Harris a spinner - more very medium pace).

[midrange]

Oh FFS, Alviro, would you hold a goddamn catch please?

[midrange]

Why isn't johan in the test squad? He can bat a bit is a great fielder and a better spinner than Harris.

Harris' figures were marginally better in the UAE than Botha's. But those pitches were awful.

Harris!!!!!!

[satanboy]

Wicket at last!

Whooohoohooohooo....Barbra Streisand...

[MickeyD]

/me reads back...


Bwahahahahahaha!!!

Geduld mense...

[midrange]

Yellow card for Dravid for time-wasting, please.

[sand_man]

/me reads back...


Bwahahahahahaha!!!

Geduld mense...

Bah. Harris takes wickets like Sachin, Michael Clark and JP take wickets. As part time bowlers under estimated by batsman. Harbajan didn't have to wait till day 4 or 5 to bowl and take wickets.

[satanboy]

Yellow card for Dravid for time-wasting, please.

c'mon...far from time wasting

[MickeyD]

Harbhajan 36 overs 2 for 169.
Harris 4 overs 1 for 17.

[midrange]

c'mon...far from time wasting

You're right, straight red card and a three-year ban.


Harbajan didn't have to wait till day 4 or 5 to bowl and take wickets.

He was no more than adequate. India's seamers are just appalling. Pitch is a road though, to be fair.

[The_Pumpkin_King]

Wow he took one wicket and he's having a big mouth, :wtf: is up with this guy??

[sand_man]

Bowling stats in test cricket, ave and strike rate...

Sachin 52.77 and 91.3
Clarke Michael 38.52 and 80.1
JP 39 and 60
Harris 36.80 and 82.1

[midrange]

Wow he took one wicket and he's having a big mouth, :wtf: is up with this guy??

He's at first slip. Part of that job is to encourage the batsmen to do their best.

[sand_man]

He's at first slip. Part of that job is to encourage the batsmen to do their best.:D

[The_Pumpkin_King]

If it was Steyn, running in at 140km/h I'd understand, not this tool who bowled nearly 10 overs in 3 days

[midrange]

If it was Steyn, running in at 140km/h I'd understand, not this tool who bowled nearly 10 overs in 3 days

The "art" of sledging has nothing to do with how fast you bowl. Hayden was endlessly tweeting in the slips long before Twitter cursed the world. How many overs did he bowl?

Anyway, you need one bowler to tie up an end while you rest your quicks, and that's how Harris has been used. But I'd have Tahir straight in there if he was eligible. The third seamer is a bigger concern, imo, though Lopsy has been a bit unlucky today.

[sand_man]

Johan Botha surely??? 3rd seamer rusty Theron or Mclaren. Bring JP back instead of Harris/Botha if quotas are a consideration.

[midrange]

Johan Botha surely??? 3rd seamer rusty Theron or Mclaren. Bring JP back instead of Harris/Botha if quotas are a consideration.

I'd probably go with Botha instead of Harris too, just think it's a bit unnecessary endlessly criticising one of our own players.

Theron or McClaren: neither have the pace, for me. Or swing. I know the Lions have some good quicks, but don't have DSTV so never see the local stuff.

Wicket!!!

[midrange]

Good day, overall. Could've used more wickets, but Kallis getting his double was awesome.

[Khanya]

Why aren't thy airing the SuperSport series?