CSA spin coach Abrahams satisfied with training stint in India

Mumbai, Jun 14 (UNI) ''Mission accomplished'' was how Cricket South Africa's (CSA) spin coach Shafiek Abrahams termed the stay in India, after conclusion of a nine-day training stint in Mohali, including seven spinners from South Africa.

The group also included young off-spinner Thandi Tshabalala, who has played ODIs for South Africa.

Speaking at an informal get together with the media here, Mr Abrahams said, ''We could see visible improvement. (Former India leggie) Narendra Hirwani was among those who gave the boys tips. Now I would recommend to CSA to send batsmen too for similar camps in India.'' Mr Abrahams, who also represented South Africa in one ODI, said there were no second thoughts on bringing their spinners to India for the training.

''India is the place to take spinners to. It has produced several world class spinners. Playing in these conditions is a good exposure for our spinners. Hopefully there will be some more similar camps,'' he said.

Two of the spin bowlers who underwent the training stint in India hosted by the Global Cricket School, leg-spinner cum wicket-keeper Daryn Smith and Tshabalala, are part of the SA's team, which is to play in the four-team Emerging Nations tournament in Australia in July.

''I will be the coach of that team. It's going to be a very good tournament,'' said Mr Abrahams, who has played under former captain Kepler Wessels for Eastern Province in his country's domestic cricket.

The seven players who underwent the camp are: Thandi Tshbalala (off spin, Eagles), Jonathan Vandiar (leg spin, Lions), Daryn Smith (leg spin, Dolphins), Roloel Van Der Merwe (left arm orthodox, Titans), Corbo Dolley (off spin, Warriors), Aubrey Swanepoel (off spin, Eagles) and Keshev Maharaj (left arm orthodox, Dolphins).

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