Dunamis Player of the Week: Grant Elliott
The most hashed out 'joke' online this week has been that at last there will be a South African in the World Cup final, and we're going to hand said Saffer-turned-Kiwi, Grant Elliott, our Dunamis Player of the Week gong.
The Johannesburg-born (and raised) batsman was not originally part of the Black Caps' World Cup plans, and was a late addition to the side. He had been on the sidelines for years, and at 36 looked like he'd seen his last international days, five Tests and 50-odd ODIs to his name.
Then came the call to play in the tournament, and a few middling scores and a duck resulted, but they kept faith with the bearded 'hairy javelin' (he's really skinny, in case you missed that) into the semi-finals.
With the Kiwis needing 298 to win in 43 overs, thanks to Messrs Duckworth and Lewis, the chase was a rollercoaster of emotions. Missed run outs and dropped catches helped the hosts' cause, as Elliott kept the boundaries flowing.
One over left, bowled by Dale Steyn (injured already) and needing 12 runs, bums were on the edges of seats. Was this man going to break the hearts of his friends family back in SA? Yes, he was. Six! Off the second-last ball, and a first World Cup final for the Kiwis.
He must also be commended for his dedication to the game over family, as he'll be missing his sister's wedding to play in the final. he's said he'll pay for her Honeymoon if they win, so we're sure she'll forgive him.
Honourable mentions see a switch of attention to the second semi-final. It was far less exciting, as India hardly pitched up on the day, but Steve Smith's gazillionth century this Oz summer against the men in blue was well worth a watch. He made 105, and along with Aaron Finch's 81 was the basis for their 95-run win.
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