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South African cricket legend Graeme Smith has shared advice to the current Proteas skipper, Temba Bavuma. In the ongoing 13th edition of the ODI World Cup 2023, South Africa is making quite a statement with their performance. They have emerged victorious in five out of their first six matches, positioning themselves as strong contenders in the tournament.
This remarkable run has placed them second in the points table, with only the undefeated host nation, India, ahead of them. However, what sets South Africa apart is not just their victories but also the manner in which their batters have approached and dismantled nearly every bowling attack they have encountered so far.
Graeme Smith’s surprise and admiration for South Africa
Former South African skipper Smith has been keenly following the tournament and expressed his surprise at the ruthless efficiency displayed by South Africa’s batters. Their consistent and expressive style of play has not only been admirable but has also solidified their status as one of the tournament’s favourite contenders. Smith has been genuinely taken aback by the form and approach of this South African team.
“Like everybody else, my expectations were lower going into the tournament. I knew that if the team was going to do well, there were certain players who had to have a good tournament — and that has happened,” Smith was quoted as saying by the Times of India.
“South Africa has a really destructive middle order. I would probably say one of South Africa’s most destructive middle-order ever – with Nos 4, 5 and 6, (Aiden) Markram, (Heinrich) Klaasen and (David) Miller — you have got players that have incredible power and destructive ability. They all play spin well, that is a huge asset,” the 42-year-old added.
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Crediting Temba Bavuma’s captaincy and Rob Walter’s coaching
Smith further believes Bavuma’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding the team to this impressive run. His ability to inspire and lead by example has been evident in the team’s success. Additionally, white-ball coach Rob Walter’s expertise and strategic input have played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s approach and performance in the tournament.
“I know what it is like. He (Bavuma) is batting, he is captaining … off the field stuff, and his tactical stuff on the field is going to be the key. He is carrying a lot, he has been in the job for a period of time. He has had the downs, he has had the ups and he has got enough experience now to be able to do the job really well. There seems to be a great spirit within the squad, that is a testimony to him and Rob Walter (the coach) and all the senior players for how the squad is playing,” the Johannesburg-born cricketer stated.
Smith’s special advice to Bavuma
While praising the team’s efforts and the leadership of Bavuma and Walter, Smith has pointed out a specific area where improvement is needed. Bavuma, the skipper, has played a crucial role in leading the team, but Smith believes there is more potential for Bavuma to contribute significantly with the bat. In light of this, Smith offers valuable advice and insights to further elevate Bavuma’s batting performance.
“I would love to see, at this stage in the tournament, (Bavuma to) step up with the bat, make really good decisions and he certainly has the opportunity to do that. The world is yours, you have got yourself in this position now, you have pretty much qualified for the semifinals now, lots to look forward to,” Smith concluded.
