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Tired and Dispirited
By Dave Crowe
Posted March 22
That is the only description one can give to the Black Caps, who have laboured long and hard for the meagre set of wickets they have obtained in this series. As I write they are finding the task of batting out the final two days of the Basin Reserve test an enormous challenge, equivalent to Paddy's match at Perth in 1989 but without the same talent.
There has been much criticism of the South African approach to the test matches. These were eagerly awaited after the titillation of the India series. Overlooked was the South African attitude to sport, which is that winning is everything. We have seen plenty of examples of that in rugby.
In fairness the weather stood in their way at Christchurch but their solid batting through their entire tour has shown that they are not ever going to be dismissed lightly. On the other hand we have not addressed our bowling problems sufficiently. So much is placed on Daniel Vettori's young shoulders but he is still learning his craft. Dion Nash looks knackered, trying hard as ever but without inspiration or flair. Doull is not the bowler who ripped through the Indians. He struggles to walk back to his mark.
Wiseman and Bulfin would have helped the boys at the Basin for we badly need fresh blood. It was great to see Gary Stead put up such a commendable fight with Harry to grab us some semblance of respectability but Stead is not a real long term prospect unless he can improve his technique by eliminating the closed face strokes he favours.
The body language of Adam Parore tells it all. Adam is really only going through the motions, which doesn't affect his keeping too much because he is still effective. It shows in his batting, where his talent is always concealed. There is an enigmatic air that shows that although he may be trying his guts out, he still doesn't come off. That's strange and disappointing and proves that he needs to be shown that he is not the only choice.
There is a wicket-keeper for Auckland, with just two first class matches, who exudes all the attributes required. Reece Young has a gloving technique far in advance of any contemporaries, and a record in minor representative cricket that is exemplary. Like Vettori he is indeed young, but it is time we blooded new material if only to inject new life. That is also why Bulfin should play in at least one of the one dayers left, and why Lou Vincent should be watched in the Yorkshire League where he is playing for Bradford.
Shell Trophy
Sovereign National Club Cricket Championship
We have had a fabulous season winning the top three club championships as well as the women's one day title, and hope to improve on our runner-up position of last year. It's a great week with club players mixing it with test stars, with great many visitors enhancing the occasion. Many also visit the Auckland Easter Show and make it a great day out. Why don't you join us?
Send Dave some feedback on his controversial selections. | ||||||
