The last week every cricket supporter is going on about the reason (s) we lost. Political interferences, team selection, etc. As a normal sport lover, I think the following are the reasons we actually lost.
The big truth on paper called statistics.
We only have two bowlers in the top ten for wicket takers. Our “best in the world” bowler Dale Steyn only came in at number 18
We are not in the top ten for bowling economy
We have two in top ten for best figures (Steyn number 37)
We have two in top ten for best averages (Abbott number 4, Steyn 45, Philander 50)
We have two in top ten for highest run scorers.
We have two in top ten best batting averages.
The list goes on. Expecting to win the world cup with this statistics is like expecting the Blues to win the Super rugby, but they have not one a game yet this year.
We must start looking at the root cause for our failures, and not try to plaster the symptoms. I went to a 20/20 game where South Africa hosted Australia before the previous 20/20 world cup. AB arrived at the stadium in his own vehicle. Behardeen arrived in his own vehicle. Unfortunately I have to leave before I could see how the rest of the team arrived. Where is the team spirit? Need I remind you that we didn’t won that word cup!
If you look at the intensity of the Aussies and New Zeeland in the field; they attack the ball and want to save every run at all cost. Their hit rate when aiming at stumps is phenomenal.
To summarize. We need to look for reasons at the right places. We need a coach, not a friend. We need skills. The Proteas must earn their respect ad stop being prima donnas.