da brwin： They are known in the trade as
Andrew Miller in Potchefstroom11-Dec-2004
Duncan Fletcher: ‘Today was a timely reminder of the disciplines that are required forTest-match cricket’© Getty Images
They are known in the trade as “Duncan days” – performances so mediocrethat the only man capable of facing the media afterwards is the Englandcoach himself. And true to form, Duncan Fletcher did his best to put apositive spin on a disappointing effort from England’s cricketers, aftertheir batsmen and bowlers had both been given the runaround by a spiritedSouth Africa A side.”It is possible that one or two of our players were a bit ring-rusty,”conceded Fletcher as the day drew to a close, although he was quick topoint out what a good toss it had been to win, because the pitch swung andseamed for the South African bowlers throughout England’s innings. “Theseguys really know where to put the ball, and they managed to keep it movingfor 60 overs, instead of the usual 25.”The new arrivals for the Test series were especially caught out by theconditions, with Mark Butcher, Marcus Trescothick and Graham Thorpe allfailing to reach double figures. “Some individuals could have used theirtime in the middle more effectively,” admitted Fletcher, “althoughhopefully they’ll get another chance later when the wicket has flattenedout.”There were too many soft dismissals,” he added. “But in those conditions,there is no point in sitting around and trying to block, because youaren’t going to get on top of your game, and you’re liable to get outanyway. There was a decision to make – try and dominate or get out fornothing – but it was an important wake-up call for the batsmen. They mustutilise the time out there as effectively as possible.”After some less-than-taxing outings against Zimbabwe and Namibia, Fletcherhad no complaints whatsoever about facing a side that came at Englandhard. But he was also happy that the pitch had flattened out for hisbowlers by the time their turn came in the afternoon session.”I’m glad it is flat for the bowlers,” he explained. “The last thing theyneed now is a pitch that is doing something. That way they get no mileagein their legs, and they can also get fooled about what lengths to bowl.Today was a timely reminder of the disciplines that are required forTest-match cricket.”Andrew Miller is assistant editor of Cricinfo. He will be following England throughout their Test series in South Africa.