| Phillip Hughes slammed his authority on the much reputed South Africa national cricket team | South African pace attack at Kingsmead today, showing everyone for the first time what all the fuss is about. He got a daring and mostly chanceless 115 of 151 balls, constructed over the course of a remarkable 19 hits to the boundary and 2 lofty sixes.  > While he did get a fifty in the second innings at Johannesburg too, that innings was nervous and chancy and the footwork was awkward. People might have commended his determination but wondered why there was so much talk about him. Today, though, no one will wonder. With his supple wrists and his flourishing stroke play, he appeared a sword-wielding artist. Not the most graceful one to watch, but an artist nevertheless. |
Although the pitch was flat and low unlike what is expected at Durban, and the most overs on the first day were bowled by a spinner, this is only a 20 year old playing in his second test match. It was not meant to be easy for him. Yet, he quickly displayed his most impressive quality that has made him a batting sensation back home: the speed with which he transfers his weight both forward and back. Unlike Katich, he doesn’t play from the crease. Rather, after a small trigger movement of his front foot, he is very quick to judge the length of the ball and get into position decisively. In fact, no aspect of his batting seems to have half-measures. Apart from the deft wrist-work which helps him glide the ball into the gaps square either side of the wicket, his front foot drives and back foot play are completed by flourishing follow throughs. The excitement about him is further justified by the fact that he brings an almost fearless approach to batting and is always looking to play attacking strokes.
Don’t compare him to Hayden, though. He is not a replica. While Mathew Hayden was intimidating and muscular at the crease, Hughes is more slightly built and supple and plays with a more delicate craft. If one is to be ruthless in picking flaws, however, like bowlers will no doubt do as they see more of him, it is perhaps the position of his feet when he plays. He transfers his weight well and is balanced, but his feet are seldom close to the ball and he doesn’t seem to mind playing away from his body. This is why his position appears unorthodox and awkward at times. But let’s stop that here. There will be enough time and opportunity to talk about flaws and problems, because if today’s innings is any evidence, he is here to stay. For now, let’s just enjoy his talent and his audacious craft. Welcome to test cricket!