Cape Cobras get Bavuma and Philander boost

Temba Bavuma and Vernon Philander are set to return for the Cape Cobras which will give a major boost to the side. The duo will take a flight to the Recreation Ground in Oudtshoorn. The time period between September 8th-14th will see the Cape Cobras take on the warriors in two tw0-day warm up matches. September 11th will be a day of rest in between.

Details:

According to the assistant coach of the Cobras, Faiek Davids, the whole team will be on the tour barring the foreign players in the name of overseas-based players Richard Levi, Rory Kleinveldt and Stiaan van Zyl. Simon Khomari, Justin Ontong, Lizaad Williams and Pieter Malan.

Simon Khomari, Justin Ontong, Lizaad Williams and Pieter Malan will only be available for the first warm up game because of their commitments to the Boland squad which will take part in the Africa T20 Cup.

Vernon Philander’s rehabilitation will be kept an eye upon and will be discussed with the national selectors. The prolific all-rounder had to sit out for the last Test against England due to a back spasm. However, there is a possibility that Philander could play in Oudtshoorn. It can also happen that Philander only plays as a batsman. However, the coach assured the Temba Bavuma is sure to play.

“We not only want to score centuries, but big hundreds, not to save games but to win them.” he said. “The team wants to bat deep and open up, scoring tons to set up games,” he added.

The Cape Cobra middle order is a strong one and the bowling department has a significant amount of depth. Malan and Khomari might face a challenge at the top order alongside Andrew Puttick. Davids said it was of extreme importance for the team to hit the ground running. The team had a “fantastic” pre-season and something which is the highlight of the team is their unity. There are no excuses and it is vital for the Cobras to get off to a flyer.