By Ken Borland
CAPE TOWN Jan 6 (Reuters) – Captain Graeme Smith hit
back at the critics of his senior players after South Africa’s
10-wicket victory in the third and final test against Sri Lanka
on Friday.
The win gave Smith’s men a 2-1 triumph, their first series
win at home in three years.
“Someone’s head always seems to be on the chopping block …
but we haven’t lost too many tests at home, we’ve just lacked a
killer punch and the second-test defeat in Durban was a big
disappointment for us,” the skipper told a news conference.
South Africa’s defeat in Durban had prompted media
speculation that Smith, all-rounder Jacques Kallis and
wicketkeeper Mark Boucher should step down.
Kallis, though, was the man of the match in Cape Town,
scoring 224 with the bat, claiming three for 35 with the ball in
Sri Lanka’s second innings and taking a record-equalling six
catches in the game.
Boucher did not bat but dropped two catches while Smith
scored 16 in South Africa’s first innings 580 for four declared.
“There’s no problem with Boucher and it was the first time
I’ve seen him drop a catch in ages,” said Smith. “As a gloveman
he’s been excellent for us, ultra-reliable.
“When we go to England (this year), having a reliable
wicketkeeper will be crucial. As far as my own game goes I feel
I’m batting well, as well as I have in a long time,” added
opener Smith.
Continued…
