By Editorial
The decision to make Temba Bavuma and Dean Elgar captains of the Proteas men’s teams is both historic and obvious.
Bavuma is the first black African captain to lead the Proteas. Elgar is a more solid “bridging” skipper – linking the old with the Proteas’ future.
Both have been given their respective jobs for two years. In Bavuma’s case that will cover two T20 World Cups and one 50-over World Cup.
The spotlight will thus shine brightly on him.
Bavuma has proved himself a very good captain at domestic level, leading the Lions to three trophies.
While some will say his job has been easy given the playing resources at that franchise’s disposal, Bavuma has led all those players well, shown no favouritism towards anyone regardless of reputation, and has proved he’s got a very good tactical brain.
Together with Elgar, Bavuma will be responsible for re-establishing the Proteas as an international force.
Through retirements, administrative bungling and then the Covid-19 pandemic the Proteas men’s side has seen its reputation take a big hit.
Elgar, the elder statesman in the Test side, sees turning around the national team’s fortunes as being one of the key goals of his captaincy.
The Test team hasn’t had a lot of time on the field in the past year, and as a side that has experienced numerous changes, need game time and stability. Elgar as a robust, straight-talking individual is just the kind of personality that South African cricket needs.
There is a good depth of talent in South African cricket, and with the Proteas looking to give younger players opportunities, it will require honest and strong leadership to help accelerate that process.
Bavuma and Elgar have a lot of work ahead of them, but they won’t mind that because getting the Proteas winning again will be very rewarding.
The Star