This is the big one for Paul Adams.
After sharing the Momentum One-Day Cup over the last two seasons, the weather gods are finally playing ball and offering the Cape Cobras coach an opportunity to win this trophy outright when they take on the Titans in tonight’s showpiece final at Newlands.
It’s the only piece of domestic silverware that the former Proteas spinner hasn’t won during his short, but successful stint with the Cape franchise.
The first final was shared with the Lions after they couldn’t complete a match in Johannesburg, while last season’s final against the Titans at Newlands was also washed out.
While there is a 20 to 30percent chance of rain forecast for this morning, it shouldn’t affect what should be a cracking final.
“The last two finals … it was quite frustrating when you want to try and get the game going,” Adams said yesterday.
“We had good crowds, especially last year at Newlands, but the rain really came down. But tomorrow the weather will be alright and hopefully our boys are prepared again. We have had a good week, and we worked hard.
“We owe the Newlands crowd another big performance.
“It’s a great occasion – a Newlands final. We really understand what is needed when we get (today), 3pm.”
However, in the way of the Adams’ title dream stands the broad bats of the Titans’ batting order. They have a blend of youth and experience, of grafters and big hitters and a healthy dose of match winners.
But the Cobras have a power batting line-up themselves, with the in-form Andrew Puttick and aggressive Richard Levi almost always setting up their innings with a partnership of substance.
Adams is still pondering over the make-up of his attack as they sweat on the fitness and the availability of veteran all-rounder Justin Kemp.
The former Proteas finisher has been a vital cog in the Cape side’s bowling line-up over the last few years, as he is hard to get away and contributes with crucial wickets. His ability to clear the fence at the back end of the innings is also a key factor.
Left-arm seamer Beuran Hendricks seems to have the inside lane should Kemp not recover from his ankle injury, although Adams hinted that they will assess the conditions, and Kemp’s fitness, today before making a final decision. “Justin bowled a little out in the middle today (Thursday). We will see how it (ankle) reacts after that,” said Adams. - The Star