South Africa should hunt for a strong leader, says Graeme Smith

Former South African skipper Graeme Smith made it clear that the South African team needs a ‘strong leader’ in order to bring glory. South Africa is all set to appoint a new coach who will replace the present man in charge Rusell Domingo. West Indian Ottis Gibson, who IS associated with the England Cricket Board (ECB) as the bowling coach, is the number one contender for the spot.

Speaking to Network 24, Graeme Smith said that it will take a bit of time to judge whether the decision of roping in Gibson will be the right one or not. Smith also stated that while the proceedings under Gibson needs to be monitored initially, one thing is certain that is the team requires a valiant leader.

What Smith said:

“We’ll first have to see how things go with him (Gibson) at the helm. One thing is certain, there is good, strong leadership needed for the team.” said the left handed genius.

Smith mentioned that the primary task of the new coach after being appointed will be to remove the clouds over the AB de Villiers situation. He said that the coach needs to hold a clear discussion with the star batsman and get a clear idea about AB’s future plans.

“The situation with AB de Villiers needs to get sorted once and for all so that there is clarity for everyone and where they stand with him. The new coach will play a large and important role in that.” added Smith.

Smith spoke to the media after being unveiled as the head coach of the Benoni Zalmi, a team which will participate in the CSA-organised T20 Global League. The Gauteng franchise is owned by Javed Afridi who also owns the team Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.

Highveld Lions coach Geoffrey Toyana, who was among the frontrunners for the Proteas head coaching role, has been appointed as Smith’s assistant.