Ah, the Proteas cubs. They definitely seem like a chip of the old block. As an Indian, it was heart-warming to see our kids bring back cricket’s under-19 World Cup. We will revel in the parades and the celebrations. But let there be no doubt, this final was decided the moment it was known that one of the participating teams was South Africa.

Indeed, if there is a gene associated with choking the scientists would be well advised to set up a research centre in Johanesburg.

This contest was never in doubt. India made 159 runs. The South Africans – a team who scored 260 in the semis – needed 160 to win. After rain, the required total was adjusted to 116 from 25 overs. It didn't matter. India could have made 70 and South Africa would have still found a way to lose. South Africa finished on 103-8, after struggling at 11 for 3.

‘... if there is a gene associated with choking the scientists would be well advised to set up a research centre in Johanesburg.’


It is an interesting phenomenon. I wonder if Steve Waugh condemned an entire country as chokers for eternity when he said, “You just dropped the World Cup, mate.” Or is this something that is deeply ingrained?

The seniors are the world No.2 and slowly gaining on being the world’s best cricketing nation. They will win every match … except the one that matters. They can chase down a record ODI total against the best team in the world and then have no clue in a crucial match. This is a team who managed to tie when requiring just one run off four balls.

And now we have the youngsters – another talented outfit who will ensure South Africa continue to choke in international cricket for the foreseeable future.

Perhaps I am being unfair to my cricketing friends who are Proteas’ fans. Should we not play the game for the spirit of it.  I absolutely agree – winning or losing is part of every game. But please trust me on this one. A game which is hard-fought, regardless of who wins, is a pleasure to watch. Choking, on the other hand, is ugly and sad. The deer-in-the-headlights look is a little funny, but I know of deer hits in the backwoods of Wisconsin and they are never fun for the deer.

After India were out, the South African team came in to bat, with everyone – including the South Africans – knowing that the collapse was imminent. The first couple of wickets fell quickly, but the third – a run-out – was so bad I was wondering for a moment whether the fielder felt sorry for the batsman, who looked totally bewildered.

The tournament was full of rainstorms, but I wonder if this rainstorm occurred just because somebody up there liked cricket enough at least to stop this painful spectacle put on by South Africa.

I am sure when play finally resumed, the organisers wanted to sufficiently shorten the match so the South Africans did not embarrass themselves further. I am sure if the match was kept for 30 overs the Proteas cubs would have still been all out before that.

At least this way the match appears close. I say this to my Protea friends: don’t worry, it’s in your genes. If it makes you feel any better, I haven’t seen better chokers in any sport.