Cobras will not stop playing with flair

THE Cape Cobras will resist any temptation to curb their attacking instincts during the Momentum One-Day Cup. They are adamant they will play with “flair” and continue to “think out of the box” in a bid to claim the last piece of domestic silverware on offer this season.

Not everything that new captain Dane Piedt has attempted thus far in the competition has been a great success, but the young skipper is not suddenly going to start hiding in the bushes anytime soon.

Two defeats in the One-Day Cup have prompted some to question whether a possible rethink in strategy is necessary. But Piedt, in his unique, effervescent manner, believes now is the time for the team to stay true to its values.

“We showed in our last game what a positive frame of mind can produce. Our bowlers did not back off and operated with high intensity,” Piedt said.

“The attitude in our group is always one of positivity. We have a lot of talent and plenty of match-winners in our squad. We (are) not going to stop playing with flair, or stop trying to express ourselves.

“That’s the culture we are trying to create within this group of players... that we should all feel confident to express ourselves. Thinking out of the box and maintaining a positive mindset is essential for us.”

While not averse to learning from defeats, Piedt is the kind of captain who prefers to focus on what worked in the victories that were achieved. For instance, both wins achieved thus far, against the Warriors and Dolphins, came after positive starts at the top with the bat.

It is Richard Levi, who arguably has most epitomised the Cobras’ attacking style resulting in fluctuating fortunes through his 55-ball 73 and 32-ball 55 in the two victories, who Piedt wants to continue playing in his trademark manner.

“I am never going to tell Richard how he must play,” Piedt explained. “He’s an experienced player, having played all over the world, won competitions everywhere, playing the way he does. It’s been hugely successful for him and the team in the past and it gives us great momentum upfront.

“We understand it’s highrisk and its not always going to be successful, but the rewards are far greater than the risk. He’s formulated a good understanding with Omphie at the top of the order too, and they complement each other very well, so it’s all guns blazing in Paarl on Friday night.”

The Cobras medical team are still assessing Jason Smith and Omphile Ramela’s injuries and will make a call closer to the start of Friday’s crucial clash against the Highveld Lions.