Share

Ontong: Proteas' fielding could be the key to CWC success

Cape Town - Proteas fielding coach Justin Ontong stated the importance that fielding will have at this year's Cricket World Cup in England and Wales.

READ: CWC Proteas: Will their fielding cut it?

The Proteas play their first warm-up game against Sri Lanka on Friday (11:30) at Sohpia Gardens.

Ontong revealed that the Proteas will maintain their high-standard of fielding during this year's 50-over showpiece.

"The fielding element is very important if you look at previous World Cups, there have always been defining moments in games. We know about those big moments," said Ontong on Wednesday in Cardiff.

"The Proteas always work hard as a fielding team and we know the importance of fielding at a World Cup, we're not taking it for granted.

"We know that all of the other teams are very strong in this department. Obviously, our goal is to be the best fielding team going into the World Cup and that is something we always pride ourselves on and something we're working towards," said the former Proteas batsman.

"South Africa has always been up there in the top three teams when it comes to fielding but I think going into this World Cup, all of the teams are on par. It is about taking opportunities when they're presented to you in the field, so that's going to be very important."

The Proteas have reached the semi-finals in four of their seven World Cup campaigns but have yet to reach a final.

Faf du Plessis' men begin their 2019 campaign when they take on hosts and tournament favourites England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa's 2019 Cricket World Cup squad:

Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir, Rassie van der Dussen

proteas
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE