My favourite chokers in the world

What I love about any cricket game is its potential to swing in any ridiculous way possible. Some wins are so miraculous and some losses so shockingly incredulous that for a moment, even you are left confused and dazed as to what exactly happened. One team that gives us regular glimpses of both unquestionable talent and foolish bravado is of course – SOUTH AFRICA. I am sure that South Africa is not just my favorite team, but also the favorite team for a significant proportion of the cricketing population.

Even currently, they have entered the World T20 tournament poised as favorites to win the title (just as they always are in every World Cup and major cricketing tournament). But undoubtedly, we already know their outcome when they reach the semi-final.

The first time I became acquainted with this national squad was when I came across Hanse Cronje’s ruthless captaincy. They had me mesmerized. Gary Kirsten was an undisputed God for me then; Allan Donald, the intimidating demon; Jonty Rhodes, the superman along with greats like Daryl Cullinan, Pat Symcox, Shaun Pollock, the Zulu Lance Klusner. Wow, now that was a team deserving to win and go on winning. And then they choked!

I was too young to remember the 1992 World Cup when the bizarre “maximum scoring overs” rain rule was applied during the semi-final, challenging them to hit 21 runs in 1 ball after a brief rain delay. In 1996, their exit was more of an upset and less of a controversy. Then followed 1999 that broke hearts of South African cricket lovers like me, the chaotic historic run-out. 2003 – the Duckworth-Lewis disaster and more recently, in 2011 – another shocking upset.

And then they choked!

But what is it about South Africa that attracts cricketing fans to them? And inspite of being labeled as obvious “chokers”, they still continue to dominate the game in their own way. The endless trove of genuine all-rounders and raw talent that they possess is a true testimony of their passion and dedication towards the game in all these years.

Hansie Cronje’s career, though riddled with match-fixing controversies, was also a witness to the step-by-step rise of the team. There was no doubt of him being a great captain and motivator. If you wanted to see class as well as depth in batting, Gary Kirsten was the shy batsmen who mesmerized young and old alike with his game. Even now as a coach, he continues to inspire talent in every form. Admit it, you weren’t a little scared when Allan Donald came to bowl. If you were supporting the opposite team and he charged down the field with the ball; you knew, even prayers would not keep your favorite batsman on track. Fielding received cult status when Jonty Rhodes came on the scene. We do remember Lance Klusner for that shambolic run-out in 1999 World Cup but in reality, he was a dashing last-ball finisher of the game. Fiery-head Shaun Pollock, the silent killer. A young Jacques Kallis of the 1996 World Cup squad is one of the best and most feared all-rounder in the world today. And although Mark Boucher‘s career came to an abrupt end, he was a solid wicket-keeper and batsman during the last decade. The current crop of young cricketers are no less intimidating. J.P Duminy is someone you would love to have in your side; Smith, a formidable captain, Dale Steyn, the new Allan Donald and of course AB de Villiers, the one to be crazy about. The ever-effervescent Morkel brothers. And, the hero that has been in unbelievable form – Hashim Amla. When Amla’s ‘hamla’ happens, it is difficult to save, well, almost anybody. It’s not only them but dozens of other players who have taken South African cricket to a much higher and respected level. With the arrival of IPL, the images of these cricketers have been seared onto our hearts and we lovingly support them when our local teams clash.

I admit they make a mess of everything. But, if there is one thing that I have learned from the South African cricket team is that they NEVER GIVE UP! For years now, the Proteas have commanded unparalleled respect for the grit and determination they have showed in all formats of the game. You will not be able to associate the brash and cocky attitude of the Aussies with them or even the meek submissive character of the minnows. They were and have always been a balanced team. They fact that they rule the ICC rankings is an obvious endorsement of this fact. I have learned the lessons of life from the Proteas. How destiny takes its own turn despite giving best each time. How to keep cool and show humility in the highest form. The techniques of amazing fielding, the clinical batting performances and a methodical bowling attack.

They say, history repeats itself and that has been proven time and again by the South Africans. Their history of choking in all major tournaments haunts them and their fans in ways that we cannot even begin to comprehend.

But, history can be re-written! Re-written in ways that will allow South Africa to reclaim their lost glory. In reality, on paper, we all know, they have always been graced with legendary players. Their repeated failures, however, cast a black shadow on their mettle as fine sportsmen. But who knows, this tournament can prove to be that life-changing, history transforming act for them. Who knows, for once, the Proteas will not choke and clinch that title. It’s high time they did.

But, maybe, possibly, if they lose yet again in some weird bizarre fashion that’s only possible for them, will I stop supporting them? Will I stop respecting them? Will we hate them?

Win or lose, the South African cricket team has been an inspiration for cricket enthusiasts all over the world. And yes, if they are chokers; they still are my favorite chokers in the world! There are some things beyond the usual division of the positive and the negative. Things like integrity, humility, respect, finesse and sheer brilliance shine through even in the bleakest of conditions. This is the stuff champions are made of.

Did you say, they are chokers? But, hey, they are still the most lovable chokers in this world!