Botha an inspired choice for ODI captain

Peter Roebuck in the Sydney Morning Herald says he is impressed by Johan Botha's captaincy of the South Africa ODI side in the absence of Graeme Smith.

By no means was it a simple assignment. Replacing a highly regarded leader was itself a challenge, more so since it meant a forceful opening batsman had been lost.

Leading a team that had already achieved its primary aim was also tricky. Some of the tourists must have been eager for a braai and a stick of dried beef. Taking charge of older players has its perils, especially for an outsider with an unremarkable record. All too easily he could have resembled a young lieutenant with a shiny cap trying to arouse gnarled veterans with bright remarks.