The national side left Johannesburg on Monday night, bound for a few days of team-building in Switzerland before continuing to England for a three-Test series between the top two sides in the world and plenty of limited-overs activity as well.
Kirsten (@Gary_Kirsten) said upon departure: “A good feeling of excitement and determination in Protea camp. Like what I’m seeing as we head north ... thanks for wishes and support.”
His thoughts were quickly endorsed by limited-overs captain AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17): “Couldn’t agree more with you Gaz. Feel the same vibe. #excited to say the least.”
In an earlier tweet, De Villiers said: “Leaving ‘die land van melk en heuning’ now! Sad, but got a few scores to settle abroad ... Switzerland for a few days, then UK. Goodbye for now.”
Test captain Graeme Smith (@GraemeSmith49) added his thoughts: “Thx for all msgs of support! Means a lot. Was sad as saying goodbye to my growing family. But all excited about Eng tour and opportunity it brings.”
Smith’s wife Morgan Deane is expecting their first child during the series and the captain is expected to fly back between Tests, if all goes to schedule, for the birth.
Pace bowler Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) chipped in: “Here we go again! Work time! Cheers family, friends, fans and my pets! See u all in 3 months!”
Meanwhile veteran wicketkeeper Mark Boucher (@markb46) went even further toward confirmation, in his own tweeting, that this would indeed be his last tour: “On plane to Switzerland then UK ... last time, may it be a good trip ... hopefully we can make u all proud.”
The Proteas were to spend a few days with Swiss-based but SA-born explorer Mike Horn, who seemed to reveal, also via Twitter (@ExploreMikeHorn) that his services come pretty cheap on this occasion to Cricket South Africa.
“@Gary_Kirsten ... can you bring me some biltong, haven’t
had it for 4 years. That’s the only payment I need.”
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