Don’t expect flashy stuff from the Proteas’ new batting guru
Dale Benkenstein was a very good cricketer because he kept things practical. He'll be doing the same as an international coach.
Dale Benkenstein wants to add a defensive bow to the Proteas’ batting arrow. Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images.
As the cricket world continues to gobble up big scores and attacking batting, Dale Benkenstein might make himself seem as a bit boring with his views on the discipline.
When the 43-year-old begins his role as the new Proteas batting coach next month, he’ll focus on defence.
“You need a defensive technique and in the modern game defence isn’t a largely spoken of subject,” Benkenstein told TimesLive, in reference to South Africa’s struggles with the bat earlier this year against England.
He’s got a point.
Most modern batsmen nowadays seem to cash in at home because they are familiar with conditions but don’t adapt well enough overseas.
And to compensate for a likely lack of preparation in those foreign conditions, they believe attack is best.
But the Proteas should, by now, know that approach is flawed.
There’s no better reminder of focusing on defence than their 2015 series loss to India as well as this year’s trip to the UK.
If South Africa wants to reach the top again, performing well overseas will be key.
What eager South African fans need to understand too is that Benkenstein doesn’t have the magic wand to immediately change things.
“Test cricket is a hell of a tough game,” said Benkenstein, who played 23 ODIs for the Proteas.
“It takes time. Even Jacques Kallis needed eight tests to get going. Youngsters need to be given a decent run but you need senior players around them to be able to get results, and I do think we’ve got that. There’s a nice combination of senior guys and then there are talented youngsters coming through.”
He’s particularly excited by rookies like Aiden Markram – who’s already made an impact – as well as the Dolphins captain Khaya Zondo and Highveld Lions opener Reeza Hendricks.
Benkenstein’s focus will mostly be those players.
After all, what can he still teach an AB de Villiers?
“It’s going to take time to find out who these guys really are‚” Benkenstein said.
“Obviously I know they’re batting and I know the older guys‚ the ones I’ve played with and against. But with some of the younger guys I’ll only have some good information in about six months’ time‚ once I get to know the okes and have a feel for how things really are.”
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