Improved Proteas down Zim
The Proteas produced an impressive display with bat and ball to beat Zimbabwe by 212 runs at Centurion.
After an average performance in the first ODI, head coach Mickey Arthur demanded a stronger showing in the second match. This time, the Proteas didn’t disappoint.
Jacques Kallis returned to the team and opened with skipper Graeme Smith. The pair gave the Proteas a solid start as they hit a 108-run partnership before Smith was stumped after a good spin delivery by Prosper Utseya.
AB de Villiers fell cheaply, but JP Duminy came to the wicket and scored his maiden international ton.
Duminy, along with Mark Boucher who fired a quick 31 off 22 balls at the tail, steered the Proteas to a formidable total of 331-5.
The South African bowlers then ripped through the Zimbabwean batting order as the visitors were bowled out for 119.
Captain Tatenda Taibu provided the only resistance with 52 runs. Charl Langeveldt, Albie Morkel and Roelof van der Merwe got three wickets each, while Lonwabo Tsotsobe grabbed one.
South Africa 331-5 (50 overs)
JP Duminy 111*, Jacques Kallis 81, Prosper Utseya 2/53.
Zimbabwe 119 (34.3 overs)
Tatenda Taibu 52, S Matsikenyeri 13, Albie Morkel 3/33.
South Africa win by 212 runs
November 11th, 2009 at 5:43 pm
JP is undeniably the most talented batsman since AB to break through the ranks, but let’s not put too much pressure on him.
He’s had a fantastic tour of Australia, but he does have a few notable weaknesses, like the short ball, which was exploited by the Aussies on the return tour. I know he has the temperament to be a long-term success like Kallis, but he’s played oly 6 tests so far. A little perspective is needed.
I love our tours to Australia, their grounds look unreal on camera. Almost as if it’s animated.
People still whining about Kallis’ run rate are exposing their own lack of knowledge of the game.
There have been better batsmen and bowlers than Kallis, but combine his bowling, slip-catching and batting and we are blessed with of the best players to ever play the game. How good was his second catch!? Brings back memories of Brain McMillan.
November 11th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Long live test cricket. And sleepless nights while watching the convicts getting done on their own back-yard!!!
November 11th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
51 Die Valk
I agree with nearly everything you said there! I’ve said similar things in the past. Very astute analysis.
You sound like someone who knows their cricket. Good on ya.
Kallis has got everything, he’s just superb in all formats. Must be one of the best all rounders of all time, if not the best. And when he’s on form with the bat in hand, there’s no one better to watch in terms of pure cricket shots and technical brilliance. Every shot looks like a page out of the coaching manual. Such a treat to watch.
Exciting times lie ahead with youngsters of the calibre of AB and JP who will be around for a long time.
It will be scary for opposition bowling attacks in future with these two coming in at 3 and 4 when in their prime. Not forgetting Hashim Amla, we have a great future ahead.
Agreed, JP must not be put under too much pressure just yet as he still learning in the Test frame but if he sorts out those technical deficiencies you alluded too there is no reason why he cant be one of the best of the players on the planet.
November 12th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
#53,
Hasim needs to sort out his temperament. It’s like watching the old AB.
A lot of pretty little knocks, but rarely a ton.
November 12th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
Ya Hashim did score a few tons a few years ago. Big ones too against NZ. But agreed he hasnt shown that temperament in a while. Against the Aussies he got some 50’s and 60’s but you’re right no biggies…
But I have confidence in him, he’s got loads of talent and he’s got a good head on his shoulders and there’s no reason why he cant a great
November 22nd, 2009 at 11:33 pm
just a test
November 22nd, 2009 at 11:36 pm
56. Roy, are you looking for your reply button??
Saw you and just had to say ‘Hi’…you OK ?
November 22nd, 2009 at 11:41 pm
Hi Carol – all well your side?
November 22nd, 2009 at 11:47 pm
Can’t complain Roy, winter does bring a few benefits….eg: rugby. I saw the Boks play Saracens last Tuesday…ouch..
Monty OK?