Underdogs eye testing times: Streak's new role in spotlight

[CrimsonAvenger]

Underdogs eye testing times

His hands are tucked firmly into his pockets and his crown is covered with a scarlet pullover. But the icy-cold chill — it’s winter here in Zimbabwe — doesn’t stop Heath Streak from following every movement in the nets with hawk eyes.

He follows every ball bowled by the youngsters, assessing the delivery either by an affirmative nod of approval or, sometimes, the pursed lips of disgust. But as the former Zimbabwe skipper and fast bowler begins his trademark tilted head run-up, the youngsters gape in awe. The waistline may have increased by a few inches since retirement but the extra pounds seem inconsequential as he curves in a perfect outswinger, which cleans up the baffled batsman’s furniture.

Streak clearly believes in leading by example. Appointed as the bowling consultant of the national side, Streak’s job of nursing the wounds of Zimbabwean cricket and bringing it back to the pink of health is a challenging one. But the 36-year old from Bulawayo is quite certain that people such as himself must do what they can to resurrect the team to its winning days.

“I am in charge of grooming players and nurturing their talent. I am also looking after the bowling and helping youngsters learn the art of getting wickets,” says Streak, who has 455 international scalps, Tests and ODIs included. “It is a young side and will only benefit from all the help and advice they receive.”

A little help from friends

Streak is not alone. Standing in the parallel nets are Dave Houghton, the country’s first Test skipper, and Alan Butcher, the head coach. “We have all played international cricket, so that is a bonus,” he says. “Besides us, Grant (Flower) is also part of the set-up and the current lot can learn from us how to win cricket matches.

“It’s been a long time since Zimbabwe had a taste of international success, so having these guys around gives the required impetus in training their minds. I think the team has taken a step in the right direction and we are happy to be a part of the new era.”

Streak believes returning to the Test fold is the ultimate ambition of the both the team and the coaching staff. “It is the only real barometer to measure ourselves. We want to be recognised by the International Cricket Council in the highest form of cricket once again. If we want the game to flourish in this country then regaining the Test status is extremely important. If we don’t, it will be a crippling blow to cricket in Zimbabwe.”

The topic of international cricket returning to the country, and the victory against India in the opening game, brings the glint back in Streak’s eyes.

Moving in right direction

“It wasn’t their (India’s) main side but there are still half a dozen guys who play for the full-strength team,” he says. “So the win was motivating. We are winning a few ODIs here and there and the return of international cricket is a good indicator that we are moving in the right direction.”

A fast bowler from Matebeleland Tuskers — Streak’s state team — catches his eye, while they train at the far end of the ground. “Some of those fast bowlers have the talent to do what we did in international cricket,” he says. “There are a few kids who can hit the 140 km per hour mark — all they need is some more grooming.”

He says Shingirai, Hamilton Mazakadsa’s younger brother, is a “real prospect”.

Source: http://www.indianexpress.com/news/under ... mes/627475

[Dr_Situ(ZimFanatic)]

Good article and fabulous job by Streaky. Keep it up Mgibsie.

[sloandog]

Good article and good signs that our depth in pace seems to be getting deeper. Keep up the good work Streaky !