With imminent retirements pending to key Proteas players after the World Cup, CSA should focus on their succession plan for the 2023 edition by breeding in the next generation with immediate effect, writes Khalid Mohidin.
The Proteas were battered, bruised and humiliated in England. They were knocked out of the tournament with two games to spare and lost six matches out of eight which confirmed their premature exit from the tournament, despite a victory against Sri Lanka in their penultimate fixture.
Fair criticism inevitably followed, with question marks emerging over the Proteas’ preparation for the tournament as well as suggestions of poor selection decisions and game plans. The decision to appoint a new coach two years out from the World Cup and then aiming to build a World Cup-winning side was always risky, too risky as it proved to be.
There was also a lack of quality performances by the experienced players in the squad. Hashim Amla, Faf du Plessis, David Miller and JP Duminy all struggled for runs in the must-win games for their side which left the Proteas panicked when chasing or attempting to set out-of-reach totals.
We could go on and rattle off long a list of what went wrong during this World Cup campaign, but this won’t benefit anyone. Instead, with retirements hovering over Amla and Du Plessis, let’s briefly scan through some options to kick-start the Proteas’ recovery plan.
It’s time now to blood a young ODI side that have the right mentality and attitude for the series in India. We should identify these players and allow them the chance to grow as a side. Forget about World Rankings and being No 1 heading into the tournament, focus on building player confidence and form. The winning will take care of itself.
Players who have proven to have a natural winning mentality at domestic level should receive first preference and be given the time to learn the intricacies of international cricket. After two seasons of international experience, there should be no reason why these players won’t grow in stature by playing at the highest level.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying just pick any youngster in the squad, they need to be in form at domestic level and if so we shouldn’t be afraid to give them a chance over experienced players. Zubayr Hamza, Kyle Verreynne, Bjorn Fortuin, Ryan Rickelton, Janneman Malan, Jason Smith and Wiaan Mulder are some of the names that spring to mind. Throw some other young players who have shown good form into the mix, and you are building a side that are creating a chemistry, culture and are learning as a cohesive unit.
Experience, however, is influential and the Proteas can bank on the lessons that were learnt by Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Andile Phehlukwayo at this World Cup. Quinton de Kock will also still be in his prime in 2023 and add valuable quality to the side.
The preparation for the next World Cup should begin right now by identifying the next generation of talent who can enhance their quality ahead of the next grand showpiece.
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