Titans head coach Mandla Mashimbyi is eager to develop new recruit Thando Ntini into a genuine all-rounder.
Ntini has joined the Titans from the Cape Cobras, ostensibly as a fast bowler. Mashimbyi, however, is confident the 19-year-old can build on a first-class batting average of 19.33.
‘He has done very well as a fast bowler, but we need to work on his batting a little bit more because he could develop into a very good all-rounder‚’ Mashimbyi was quoted as saying by TimesLIVE.
‘I see him more as a fast bowler, but we need to work on his batting because he has potential to develop as a very good all-rounder for SA in the future. I have spoken to him about that and he is willing to work hard and improve his game.
‘He is still young and will definitely be given all the necessary support and opportunities to grow in our set-up. We see him becoming an important player for us.
‘You must remember that you have different types of all-rounders. Quinton de Kock is also an all-rounder because he keeps wicket and you had someone like Jacques Kallis who was a batting all-rounder.
‘Ntini is more like Vernon Philander, who was a bowling all-rounder and we will help him improve all aspects of his game.’
The Titans have also recruited batsman Sibonelo Makhanya and fast bowler Lizaad Williams from the Dolphins and Cobras, respectively, ahead of the 2020-21 season.
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