‘South Africa Will Miss Kyle Abbott’s Services’

Apr 6, 2019 at 2:13 PM

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‘South Africa Will Miss Kyle Abbott’s Services’

Former South Africa coach Eric Simmons seems concerned about the national side after fast- bowler Kyle Abbott signed a Kolpak deal with English County side Hampshire. He stated his decision may affect the Proteas’ recent development across all formats, especially in Tests.

“He’s played a critical role for the team. I wonder if it’s going to affect the morale of the team. We talk about the team being so tight-knit and having such a sense of unity. I think they’re going to miss him a lot,” Simons said, who coached the South African side in 2003 World Cup.

Following the footsteps of teammate Abbott, the 27-year-old batsman Rilee Rossouw has also signed a three-year contract as a Kolpak player to join Hampshire while stating about his long-term career security.

Simmons believes Abbott was consistent and at his best when bowling. He feels such bowlers give a leeway to youngsters to get used to the conditions well.

“The way he [Kyle] bowls. It is relentless pressure. He gives nothing away. When you have a guy like that and Vernon Philander to keep things tight, a guy like [Kagiso] Rabada, who is still young, can afford to be a little wayward and grow in a stable environment,” Simons added.

The 29-year-old Abbott’s contract with Cricket South Africa was ended after revealing about the agreement to play in England. He does not seem confident about the replacement of a bowler like Abbott, who played 11 Tests for the Proteas and without an inch of doubt, was an impact player.

“The question is, can you find someone to do the same things Abbott can do and also be able to support Rabada’s development?,” Simons Remarked.

In a duration of six months, South Africa has won three Test series against New Zealand, Australia and Sri Lanka after whitewashing Australia in a five-match ODI series.

After the former South Africa cricketer Neil Mckenzie was announced national side’s batting consultant in February last year, Simmons believes his motivation has been fruitful for the team in nutshell.

“He’s [Neil] positive and has a sense of humor. You can see his influence in the batsmen playing with a lot more freedom and the way they can, even though the team is in a tight spot. I’ve worked with Neil and coached him, so I know the kind of personality he brings,” Simmons said on Neil Mckenzie.

“I get a sense the guys are really playing for one another. I’ve listened very carefully to their interviews and the guys’ humility comes through. You get a sense they understand that there’s a bigger picture than themselves,” Simons concluded.

The Proteas are placed third in ICC Test Rankings and T20I Rankings respectively followed by second in ODIs points table. They’re set to play their third and final Test in Johannesburg against Sri Lanka from January 12-16.

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