Proteas team learnt lessons from Kiwis’ ODI humbling: Kirsten

Johannesburg: Coach Gary Kirsten has claimed the young South African one-day side is not proud of it’s performance against New Zealand in the ongoing limited over series, which they have already lost 2-0, but added sometimes it is necessary to take a few steps backwards, in order to move forwards. Kirsten said in both the matches they were in a winning position, adding that the team has taken a lot out of it and sometimes, to fulfill a longer-term vision a team needs to take a few steps back.

The former South African captain added by doing so it gives clarity where we’re going as a team and what our combinations will look like going forward. The Proteas take on New Zealand in the last of three one-day internationals (ODI) in Potchefstroom on Friday having already lost the series 2-0 to the visitors. In both of the previous games, the home side was unable to capitalize on their favourable situations, the paper reported. Chasing 209 for victory, New Zealand were in trouble at 141 for eight and yet went on to win the first game in Paarl, with 26-balls to spare. In the second ODI in Kimberley, the Proteas were cruising at 167 for one after 30 overs - needing another 113 runs - but lost their last five wickets for 41. Although their turnover in staff was not planned, Kirsten said the absence of some of the more senior players in the squad had afforded chances to the less experienced players, which, in turn, helped to strengthen their reserves, the paper added. ANI