Kagiso Rabada and Shaun Pollock back the appointment of head coach Ottis Gibson

South African speedster Kagiso Rabada and Proteas legend Shaun Pollock are both very optimistic at the appointment of Ottis Gibson. Gibson has replaced Russell Domingo as the head coach after the latter’s contract was not renewed. Russell’s contract will come to an end at the end of this month.

Serving as Nissan Ambassadors at the Festival of Motoring, Rabada said that Gibson’s appointment will be seen as an exciting and new beginning for South African cricket. The pacer said that the English players hold Gibson in high regard and he has got experience at the international level.

Rabada look to learn from the new coach

“I’ve chatted to him and he looks like a nice guy. I’ve just never chatted cricket to him, I’m excited to see what all the guys are talking about. “It’s a new beginning. Let’s see who he brings in the support staff and let’s see what he can do. “I’m always looking to learn so I’d like to see what I can learn from him in terms of my bowling and as a cricketer in general.” Rabada told Sports24 in an exclusive interview.

Pollock admires Gibson’s knowledge

Pollock also backed Gibson’s inclusion and said that he has got good knowledge. South Africa recently lost to England in the Test series by a margin of 3-1. Gibson was England’s bowling coach during that period.

“His credentials speak for themselves and coming fresh off this England series, he has got an understanding on our strengths and weaknesses,” Pollock told. “He would’ve also listened to the team talks in England where they felt the South African team were good or lacking. So he should have an idea on how to improve those weaknesses and even those strengths.” he added.

South Africa will play Bangladesh in a 2-match series, starting September 28. It will be followed by a four-match ODI series and two T20Is. “He’s not coming in cold and has a nice series to start. Bangladesh might be looked upon as the ideal team and then after that his got the two big tours of India and Australia,” said the former Proteas legend.