Cricket
All-rounders a dying breed
2008-11-12 20:50
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One of a dying breed (Gallo Images)
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Henk SteenkampEast London. – All-rounders are becoming an endangered species. That was the warning on Wednesday from Test cricket’s foremost all-rounder, Jacques Kallis.
“You are seeing fewer all-rounders in international cricket these days. It’s a pity,” said Kallis.
The South African star was referring to players capable of making the team alone for their ability to bat or bowl if necessary. Kallis believes the main reason for there being fewer of these players is the demanding fixtures list.
“There is a heck of a lot of international cricket these days. It’s hard work,” he explained.
“Not all the all-rounders have disappeared. A guy like England’s Andrew Flintoff is still excelling.
“There are a few new ones coming through the ranks. Shane Watson of Australia is a guy that is excelling with the bat and ball.”
South Africa are on the lookout for all-rounders, specifically for limited overs cricket.
Kallis was referring to the void left by players such as Shaun Pollock, Andrew Hall and Justin Kemp.
The South African camp wanted to rope in Ryan McLaren, but he is not available. Other contenders such as Johann Louw, Rory Kleinveldt and Vernon Philander are struggling to make a breakthrough.
Kallis believes captains should be aware of not over-working their all-rounders.
“Now and then I twist the captain’s (Graeme Smith) arm for me not to have to bowl,” he said with a smile.
Meanwhile, the third and final one-day international between South Africa and Bangladesh at Buffalo Park was called off due to rain without a ball being bowled.
South Africa therefore win the series 2-0 and according to the coach, Mickey Arthur, the focus now shifts two the two Tests against Bangladesh, the first of which starts in Bloemfontein on Wednesday.
“We have to adapt to Test cricket and hopefully there are lengthy innings’ for the batsmen,” said Arthur.
“I was happy with our batting in the one-day series. There are still pieces of the jigsaw puzzle to complete with the bowling, but it’s very encouraging that we are steadily improving.”
South African batsman Hashim Amla was named as the player of the one-day series.