Paul Adams is hoping the Cape Cobras can get over the line in a final and Marchant de Lange will be coached by Ricky Ponting in the IPL.

Cobras hoping for third time lucky

The Cape Cobras will be hoping it’s a case of third time lucky when they host the Knights at Newlands this evening.

The Cape Cobras lost to the Dolphins by two runs in the Ram Slam T20 final in february this year, which took place at the same venue. Last season, in the domestic One Day Cup, the home team were also unable to win the final as rain had the final say. It meant that they shared the title with the Titans.

‘Last year was a tough final, and even though we came out on the losing side it’s created a desire to win this one,’ said the Cape Cobras coach Paul Adams.

The Cape side won the right to host a home final by winning eight of their ten matches during the league stage of the competition as they finished top of the log. They boast a strong line up with many Proteas and Adams said he did not foresee major changes for the decider.

‘I want to keep continuity within the squad and the guys that have gone through the campaign.

‘Barring some of the Proteas coming in positions where they are world class … guys like Dale Steyn, Hashim Amla and Robin Peterson combining will add some spice,’ said Adams.

However, it hasn’t just been the international stars that have shone for the Cape Cobras. Adams has been particularly impressed with the likes of George Linde and Dane Paterson, who have grabbed their opportunities with both hands.

‘At the beginning of this campaign we were faced with injuries but the young players have put their hands up which has been refreshing.

‘They’ve worked really hard and are now in a position where they understand their game-plan and the structure of how we want to play,’ concluded Adams.

Ponting to coach Mumbai Indians

The Mumbai Indians have appointed two-time Australian World Cup winning captain Ricky Ponting as their head coach for the eighth edition of Indian Premier League in 2015.

Having captained the franchise as well as holding an advisory role last season, which saw the team finish fourth. Ponting is no stranger to the Mumbai Indians structures and will have a crucial role to play in the upcoming season.

He will team up with former teammate Mike Hussey as well as other international stars such as Marchant de Lange at his disposal. It will be a new challenge for the Tasmanian, who for the first time won’t be able to lead from the front.

‘We are delighted to have Ricky back with us and look forward to his contribution based on his experience and expertise,’ former India spin bowler Anil Kumble, who is part of the Mumbai Owners Group, said in a statement on the club’s website.

Ponting led his country to 48 victories in 77 tests and is regarded as one of the greatest captains to grace the gentlemen’s game.

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