After a largely disappointing first test at Durban, where only over a day’s play was possible owing to incremental playing conditions, things now shift to Centurion for the second test between New Zealand and South Africa. The first test was dominated by the pacers of both sides as first New Zealand did well to restrict the hosts to a moderate total. However, on the second morning, fans witnessed the return of Dale Steyn to full effect as he got rid of the Kiwi openers with absolute beauties.
Going into the second test, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson admitted that the presence of a seam bowling all-rounder was always a benefit to have an elegant batsman said that special emphasis would be placed over the bowlers, that could take 20 wickets in a game.
“We always pick the best team we can, the best balance we can,” Williamson said. “It’s always nice to have a seam-bowling allrounder that is so sought after in any international side but it’s a luxury we don’t really have at this stage but if you don’t have that, you compromise.”
He added that Doug Bracewell could well be that candidate who plays the role of a seam bowling all-rounder. “Someone like Doug Bracewell is looking to try trying to play that allrounder role and improve in it going forward. He can bat and bat well so it’s just experienced at this top level will continue his improvement with that bat.” What’s most important for us is that we pick a team that can take 20 wickets,” Williamson added.
Williamson also praised left-arm pacer Neil Wager for his efforts and said that his efforts had been worth applauding. “Wags has been outstanding for a long period of time, particularly on surfaces that don’t offer a huge amount in terms of swing movement or seam,” Williamson said. “He creates opportunities through creative bowling tactics.”