'Can't Afford to be One-Trick Ponies': Former SA Captain Slams South Africa's Batting Approach in First ODI vs India
Former South African skipper, Shaun Pollock expressed his disappointment after South Africa's poor show against India in the first ODI where the home side were reduced to a mere 116 runs thanks to stellar performances from the Indian bowling attack.
In the first ODI between South Africa and India in Johannesburg, the Proteas’ batting unit tumbled over after some stellar bowling performances by the Indian side. Left-arm pacer, Arshdeep Singh managed to finish with a five-wicket haul while Avesh Khan also complemented his fellow pacer and managed to pick up four wickets as well to bundle out South Africa for just 116 runs on the board at the end of the first innings.
After the shocking performance from the home side, who are usually a fairly dominant side under home conditions, former South African captain and legendary pace bowler, Shaun Pollock expressed his disappointment with the performance from the South African side.
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The South African legend was not happy with the approach of the batters looking to go for the big shots despite being under pressure with the loss of a couple of wickets which kept South Africa on the back foot. Pollock added," They can’t afford to become one-trick ponies where if things aren’t going according to plan they can just smash it. They have to be adaptable and adjust their game plans."
The former captain was also critical of the approach of the modern-day players with T20 cricket being played worldwide. I think the modern player these days, if they get into trouble, the way to play is to whack my way out of it. Back in the day, I am almost going to play it like a Test match and play out 5-10 overs."
Shaun Pollock also highlighted that the South African side has had a recent history where they looked to go for the T20 approach in pressure situations which was concerning for the former skipper.
He added," There have been too many occasions in the last 18 months where South Africa have been on the back foot and don’t have the ability to absorb pressure and just continue to try and whack their way out of the situation and get themselves into trouble and get out cheaply. I can’t accept it as a former South African (player)."
South Africa will now go up against India once again in the second ODI which takes place at St George’s Park, Gqeberha on December 19, 2023. The home side will be looking to redeem themselves after a shocking performance in the second match and level the ODI series.
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