The Boys in Blue have found the step up from Division 2 challenging, a reality recently acknowledged by head coach Ahmed Amla, who described the transition as a steep learning curve for the squad. “It’s been a real learning experience for most of the players in terms of the skill and intensity difference between Division 2 and Division 1,” Amla said, adding that the team’s mental strength still needs improvement at this elite level. KZN Inland Cricket chief executive officer Jason Sathiaseelan echoed these concerns, telling The Witness on Wednesday that the current situation is worrying for everyone associated with the team.
He said the entire squad would need to raise their game if the Tuskers are to improve their fortunes and, crucially, avoid relegation. Sathiaseelan admitted that the adjustment to Division 1 cricket has not been easy, particularly for the batting unit. “It has been tough for our batters to adjust to Division 1 cricket, and this is taking longer than anticipated, but the bowlers have done well,” he said.
The Tuskers have two four-day matches remaining in the current campaign. They will host the Titans at the AET Pietermaritzburg Oval from February 1-4, before concluding the red-ball season against the Lions at Johannesburg’s Wanderers Stadium from February 9-12. Attention will then turn to the One-Day Cup, which gets under way on March 1.
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