Should Proteas’ Top Order Apply Pressure on Aussie Bowlers, Asks Ponting?
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Synopsis
In the ICC World Test Championship Final, Ricky Ponting stresses that South Africa's batters must adopt a more aggressive stance against Australia's bowlers to shift the momentum in their favor. As they prepare for an intense run chase, can the Proteas turn the tide?
Key Takeaways
- Ricky Ponting emphasizes the need for aggressive batting from South Africa.
- South Africa struggled in their first innings, scoring only 138.
- Applying pressure on elite bowlers is crucial for success.
- Australia leads by 218 runs at the end of Thursday's play.
- Strategic adjustments are necessary for South Africa in the second innings.
London, June 13 (NationPress) Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting asserts that South Africa's batters must embrace a more assertive strategy against Australia’s bowlers when they take to the crease on Friday during the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s.
On an exhilarating second day in London, Kagiso Rabada and South Africa's renowned pace attack demonstrated their caliber, making a commendable comeback with the ball after the team was dismissed for a mere 138 in the first innings.
Now, with a chance to recover, South Africa is faced with a crucial run chase on Friday in their quest to secure victory in this one-off Test. Ponting remarked that both teams have been overly cautious against the new ball and called upon South Africa's batters to take charge, play with determination, and apply pressure on Australia’s bowlers from the outset.
"One thing I do know about the game is that when facing the elite bowlers, and the South African top-order was certainly up against that, you need to look to apply pressure back on the bowlers," Ponting shared with ICC Digital. "You can't just sit back and wait for them to make mistakes, as they rarely do."
None of South Africa's top six batsmen surpassed 45 runs in their first innings at Lord’s, with only four players reaching double figures while Australia’s pacers, spearheaded by skipper Pat Cummins' six-wicket haul, took charge.
Ponting urged the Proteas to implement a different tactic upon their return to bat on Friday. "At times, you simply need to approach things differently. You must discover ways to put pressure back on those bowlers and compel them to deliver more poor balls.
"It's easy for us to criticize their lack of intent, but unfortunately, it’s essential. You have to pressure them; otherwise, the scoreboard stagnates.
"If you lose two quick wickets, suddenly you're at two for none when you could have been at two for 20 or 30, and that alters the game dynamics completely. However, they'll learn from this and need to find ways to adjust in the second innings," Ponting expressed.
As play concluded on Thursday, Australia was at 144/8, leading by 218 runs with Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon at the crease.
Point of View
The insights provided by Ricky Ponting highlight the critical nature of aggressive batting strategies in high-pressure matches. As the situation unfolds in the ICC World Test Championship Final, the South African team must adapt and demonstrate resilience to have a fighting chance against a strong Australian bowling lineup.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ricky Ponting suggest for South Africa's batting approach?
Ponting suggested that South Africa's batters need to adopt a more aggressive strategy to put pressure on Australia's bowlers.
How did South Africa perform in their first innings?
In their first innings, South Africa was bowled out for just 138 runs, with none of the top six batters scoring more than 45.
What does Ponting believe is necessary against elite bowlers?
Ponting believes that applying pressure is essential when facing elite bowlers, as they rarely make mistakes.
What was Australia's position at the end of Thursday's play?
At the end of play on Thursday, Australia was 144/8, leading by 218 runs.
What changes does Ponting recommend for South Africa in the second innings?
Ponting recommends that South Africa must find a way to pressure the bowlers and adjust their approach to improve their chances in the second innings.
