Re-energised Cobras hungry to reclaim title

IN the last four years the Cape Cobras have lifted the one-day trophy three times ( twice shared), and on Sunday in their fifth consecutive final, they will be out to reclaim the silverware that has almost become part of the furniture at Newlands.

Last season the Titans won the final at Newlands.

Cobras coach Paul Adams said yesterday: “I don’t think the boys will be focusing too much on last season. I think (it) will be more about producing a high level of cricket in a pressure game. “We’ve had plenty of changes and some tough times in other competitions this season, but we’ve maintained a high level of performance in one-day cricket,” Adams said.

“For me that’s the more the focus. We need to keep calm and concentrate solely on our game plans. If we start focusing on the opposition or the occasion, that is when we drift away from what has been successful for us.”

Adams is certainly passionate about his team playing well for “the people of Cape Town”. The squad has enjoyed a break from all cricket activity since the last round-robin game against the Knights in Bloemfontein nine days ago.

The players returned yesterday to skills training with everyone looking particularly re-energised. There was plenty of laughter and chatter, but the intensity remained high even in the heat.

“We are thoroughly aware of a ‘ burn-out’ situation, especially if you’re not involved in a playoff game and there’s a bit of a wait before playing the final. We want the boys to be fresh come Sunday,” Adams explained.

“We’ve sat down with a physio and the medical team and worked out the best possible plan for the players to peak at the right time. We going to gradually increase the intensity (this week).”

Adams and his selection convener Omar Henry were involved in long meetings yesterday afternoon. There’s no doubt the discussions became animated at times with the selection panel having an abundance of talented players to choose from. The former Proteas spinners were still keeping their cards close to their chests though.

“We will name our squad after training (today) after I sit down with the entire squad,” said Adams.

The Cobras will play the Lions in the final.