Cobras still have a job to do, says skipper Piedt
THE CAPE Cobras may be edging towards the 4-Day Franchise Series title but captain Dane Piedt is not focusing on the silverware just yet.
With three rounds remaining in the competition, the Cobras have a vice-like grip on the championship, leading the second-placed Highveld Lions by 20 points.
Although the Cobras must still play the two bottom placed teams, the Dolphins and Titans, they have a crucial encounter next up when the Warriors head to Newlands.
The Eastern Cape team are fresh off a thumping 216-run victory over the defending champion Titans in East London.
Piedt, though, does not want to hear any talk about trophies and is simply pleased with the way his team are performing in the country’s premier first-class competition.
“Everybody plays the game to win titles, trophies, medals, that type of thing, but I am not too worried by those things at the moment,” Piedt said.
“We are playing a dynamic brand of cricket. That is what gets me excited.
“We are always trying to be positive, whether that’s with the ball, bat or in the field. We are looking to make things happen all the time, and be alert when something does that happen. To me, that’s a sign of a good cricket team.”
The skipper has certainly been at the forefront of this mindset. Not only is the leading wicket-taker in the competition with 33 scalps but he also compiled a maiden first-class century over the weekend against the Knights.
Most importantly, though, he has led with enthusiasm and verve that has formed a team culture where anyone coming into the dressing room immediately feels welcomed.
This has enabled the Cobras to cope with some of their leading players, such as Zubayr Hamza, being called up to the Proteas Test squad.
Rookie David Bedingham was only drafted into the Cobras starting XI in Bloemfontein at the last minute but responded with his second century of the competition.
“I think that’s the most pleasing aspect of the season for me,” said Piedt.
“Obviously when a team does well, there will be individuals who shine, and I am so happy for these young guys who get an opportunity at a higher level.
“Zuby averages 49 in first-class cricket and now Pieter Malan has also been rewarded for a couple of superb seasons playing for the Cobras. He is just so hungry to score runs.
“So when these guys go up, it opens the door for an opportunity for another youngster to make his mark. We have seen what Kyle (Verreynne) and Jason (Smith) have done already, now its David’s chance. It’s only his first season of franchise cricket and he already has two hundreds. Lizzy (Lizaad Williams) too, with the ball he just comes in whenever he gets a chance and does a superb job,” Piedt added.