Michael Hussey's presence inspiration enough for South Africa: Proteas Coach

Melbourne, February 19 (IANS)

The mere presence of Australian batting great Michael Hussey in South Africa's training sessions is acting as an inspiration for the team, Proteas coach Russell Domingo said on Thursday.

Australia's 2007 World Cup winner has been employed as a coaching consultant for the Proteas.

“It's Mike's (Michael Hussey) second day at practice today and second day with the team so I'm not expecting to get us to get 500 in our next One-Day game,” Domingo was quoted as saying bu news.com.au at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday.

“He's a guy who has won a World Cup as a player. He has been in pressure situations in Australia. His presence alone will serve as a big form of motivation for our players. He's known as a very thoughtful cricketer.”

Domingo said he expected his team's cricketers to benefit from the Australian's vast knowledge in tackling pressure situations.

“Hopefully some of the things that he has learnt playing in competitions like this he can pass on to some of our players. Whether it's in their mental preparation, whether it's in their tactical strategies when going out to bat under pressure.”

Domingo said Hussey and Gary Kirsten, another consultant South Africa have taken on board in their quest to win their maiden World Cup, have fitted in well and don't impose themselves too strongly on the team.

“Although it's still early in the tournament a lot of positives can be taken out of a positive result against a side like India in front of a crowd which I've heard is close to being sold out,” he said.

“It's going to be a big stage for some of our players who haven't experienced that type of atmosphere before.”

South Africa enjoy a 3-0 record over India in World Cup matches. Domingo also said pace spearhead Dale Steyn has a sinus problem but it wasn't serious.