Publications
Partners
Eduan Roos
Johannesburg – The class tests are over. Now it’s the final examination for the South African cricket team.
And, in spite of an unconvincing series win over India, Morné van Wyk believes that the Proteas can hardly be better prepared for their World Cup test.
The 31-year-old wicketkeeper was one of the home team’s batting heroes in their win by 33 runs over the visitors in the decisive match at Centurion.
Thanks to Van Wyk’s innings of 56 runs, and Hashim Amla’s magnificent 116 not out, the South Africans were able to survive a Yusuf Pathan-blitzkrieg and win the series 3-2.
“The victory definitely boosted our confidence, but even if we lost, it would not have been the end of our Cup chances,” Van Wyk told Sport24 on Monday.
“It’s better that we had to struggle rather than win the series 4-1 or 5-0, because in that way we have been forced to find answers to some tough questions.”
However, the playing field will be level when the 14 contenders start their onslaught on cricket’s world crown on the sub-continent next month.
“The tournament is something completely different and each of the teams starts on an equal footing, irrespective of their recent results,” said Van Wyk.
He made his debut as long ago as 2003, but has only worn the Green and Gold seven times since.
“It was nice to make the team, but now the most important thing for each player is to make big contributions, because all 15 guys will have to give it their all for us to bring the World Cup home,” he said.
He realises that he is set to lose his place in the Proteas’ XI when Jacques Kallis returns from injury shortly.
“Jacques is the kind of player that no team can afford to leave out,” he said.
“Of course I don’t wish injury or poor form on any of my team-mates, but it’s a long tournament and anything is possible.”
And then he will be ready to grab his opportunity.
“I don’t care where I have to walk out in the batting order, and whether I have to stand behind the wickets or in the field,” said Van Wyk.
“I have even started working on my bowling again – just in case the team may need me in that role.”
