Du Plessis again shows his worth

Faf du Plessis’ worth as a Test captain was amplified as South Africa showed character at Trent Bridge, writes GARY LEMKE.

In boxing parlance, SA were KO’d in round 12

There is a gulf between South Africa and England that suggests the best the visitors can do is minimise the damage.

Proteas in search of a first Test hero

This is true Test cricket. After frenetic T20s and ODIs, this is a return to white clothing, and 119 runs scored in 51 overs for only one wicket, writes GARY LEMKE.

De Kock’s role vital against new ball

By lunchtime on Saturday we should have a clear indication of the destiny of the first Test at Lord’s, with the new ball likely to be taken the moment it becomes available, writes GARY LEMKE.

Pressure now on Proteas batsmen

A huge turnaround in the final two sessions on day one means the Proteas batsmen will be up against it, writes GARY LEMKE.

Familiar failings derail Proteas yet again

Those inside the Proteas camp can say what they like about things not ‘going right’ for them on the day, but there aren’t many positives to pluck out of another wrecked ICC tournament campaign, writes GARY LEMKE.

Rudderless Proteas forced to regroup

South Africa will be thankful their crunch Champions Trophy encounter sees them return to The Oval in London following a nightmare in Birmingham, writes GARY LEMKE.

Tahir’s energy gives Proteas X-factor

They timed Imran Tahir’s celebration sprints at 25km/h and any more of his man of the match heroics and he could have South Africans dancing in the streets come 18 June, writes GARY LEMKE. It’s hard to believe that Tahir is already 38 years old, given the boundless energy he exerts – and in tournaments such as this truncated Champions Trophy… Read more →

Now for Proteas to get the selection right

South Africa ticked all the right boxes in their final match before their Champions Trophy opener against Sri Lanka, writes GARY LEMKE.

SA still searching for right balance

Defeat from the jaws of victory has left South Africa with more questions than answers, with the Champions Trophy looming, writes GARY LEMKE.

Tahir sums up bowling woes

It is no coincidence that Imran Tahir’s rise to the No 1 one-day international bowler’s spot has tallied with South Africa’s elevation to the top ODI team spot, writes GARY LEMKE.

Slim pickings at the top

Can we fault the selectors for giving De Bruyn a go at opening? Based on the other options available, no.

Proteas top-order has fallen flat

South Africa’s top-order has failed miserably in New Zealand.

Seamers stopped NZ getting away

South Africa still have a bit of work to do before they can crack open the beers to celebrate a Test series victory in New Zealand. The Proteas are 1-0 up in the three-match series and with two days to go in Hamilton, a draw seems the most obvious result. The bookies agree, with 4-10 being offered for that eventuality,… Read more →

Why De Kock’s so valuable at No 7

Quinton de Kock showed why he should not be moved up the Proteas’ batting order.