New Proteas fielding guru: ‘I’d better plan a retirement party’

Justin Ontong gives a hearty laugh when he’s asked if he pulled a “Neil McKenzie” stunt.

He knows exactly what that question implies.

Last year, a sudden, rushed retirement party had to be organised for McKenzie after he was appointed the Proteas’ batting consultant while still technically playing for the Highveld Lions.

Now it’s Ontong’s turn after Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed on Thursday that the 37-year-old will become the national side’s new fielding coach.

“It’s all happened a bit quick,” he admitted.

“I was still absolutely convinced that I’ve got two years left in me as a player. I’m still contracted to the Cape Cobras for the rest of the domestic T20 challenge but I’m not sure how much I’ll be able to play. I’m going to have to make a retirement call soon.”

Ontong’s contract with CSA commences on December 16.

Much like the cricketing public, he was also very surprised with Proteas coach Ottis Gibson’s offer.

“He called me during the Bangladesh tour. I thought he was just trying to speak to a few experienced players to gain an insight into the franchise system,” said Ontong.

“But then he asked me if I would be interesting in a position on his support staff. I was stunned but really pleased too. It’s just too good an opportunity to pass on. He did give me some time to think about it but it was still quite quick.”

Given the fact that Ontong, who played 2 Tests and 28 ODIs for South Africa, was still planning to play for some time, this new offer would seem like a disruption.

Yet he’s not worried at all.

“It’s just moved my plans forward a bit. I did complete my level two coaching course at CSA at my own pace previously but I might need to complete level three quite quickly now! The plan was always to get involved in coaching, it’s something I always figured I’d enjoy,” said Ontong.

Fielding might not sound like the most glamorous but Ontong, known as an outstanding fielder, loves it.

“I’ve always prided myself on it and I hope to impart some insights on it to others. The great thing about South Africa is that we’re known for our elite athletes and that makes them good fielders naturally,” he said.

“Fielding is not about just stopping runs. It’s a weapon for a team, a competitive advantage. We’ve seen in the past how a dropped catch affects the outcome of a game or a brilliant run out of a world-class batsman. Whenever you lose by 15 or so runs, there will be a conversation on whether your fielding had an influence.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuK50jAQYEU

If South Africa ever needed an example of what extraordinary fielding can bring, just remember Temba Bavuma in Perth … and Ontong gets that.

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