South Africa cricket is in transition phase: Ashwell Prince

BENGALURU: Having toured India on multiple occasions, former South Africa all-rounder Ashwell Prince’s experience will prove beneficial for the Proteas who will take part in the three-match Test series in September and October.

Ashwell is currently in Bengaluru as a batting consultant of South Africa ‘A’ side, supervising a spin camp. A few players from the ‘A’ side are expected to make it to the senior Proteas squad.

Ashwell stressed the importance of preparing well for India’s spin attack. “We are looking at both aspects (be it physical and mental level) to play spin. It’s about being able to understand that a good spinner on a surface providing spin will go past the outside edge and beat your bat,” said Ashwell.

Ashwell said his previous India tours have taught him a few valuable lessons. “We obviously have come here for young players to experience some of the conditions. What we try to do is to pass on our learnings, but we have some local coaches (Amol Muzumdar) helping us here,” he said.

“Even the spin coach has years of experience to associate the idea of local conditions. It’s basically to feed the young guys as much information as possible,” he added.

SA stars Hashim Amla and Dale Steyn have quit the longer format. Steyn, however, will be part of the ODI set-up. Ashwell was optimistic that young players will step up in the absence of the big names.

“It’s a transition phase for South African cricket. I work in the first-class system and we have the first-hand experience of the young guys that are coming through. Of course, you don’t become Amla and Steyn overnight. These guys have got good potential,” he added.