Reality checks, shark diving and ocean walks

After what was probably an unrealistically easy start to the tournament, we have been given a reality check by losing two on the trot. The first was to the South Australian Redbacks, when we were simply outplayed in every department by a professional and determined team who wanted it more. We lost the second to the Mumbai Indians because we gave away far too many runs in the last five overs - something we did in our semi-final clash against them in the IPL in April. This, however, was a classic game of cricket, and although it's a bitter pill to swallow to lose by two runs, I am thrilled that I was able to be part of such an exciting contest. I mean a game that boasts names like Tendulkar, Pollard, Zaheer, Malinga, Dravid, Kallis, Taylor, Kumble, Uthappa is always going to be a classic.

Enough from the cricketing side of things. While in Durban, I have been able to get the adrenaline flowing once again by going for a second skydive. I also did the world's highest 'swing' over the Moses Mabhida Stadium, which had hosted one of the semi-finals of the 2010 football World Cup. I have to say it was an amazing experience. A free-fall for 106 metres in a bungee, then swing a further 220 meters, to 20 feet above the pitch.

The day after the Redbacks game, the whole squad went to Shaka, which is a huge aquarium. We dived with the sharks there but from the safety of a cage! This was followed by an ocean walk. This was very amusing as our strength and conditioning coach Basu provided most of the entertainment with his hand signals! It was a nice day out with the boys and a good opportunity to bond. It's important in a short tournament like this to indulge in these sorts of activities away from the pitch to bring everybody closer.

I have some pictures, and will definitely upload them with the next entry.

We play on Tuesday next against the Highveld Lions in a must win game. Till then, take care.