“We felt that we were very well planned against South Africa. We wanted to make an impact in the power play during the first six overs,” Langer said. “We’ve seen that through the IPL and also know the strength of South Africa up front. Thankfully it worked.
“I can’t emphasise how tough it was on Ashton Agar. His numbers are literally outstanding. Tough on Ash and tough on Kane Richardson, who has been our best death bowler and a very good bowler in these conditions.
“It’s nice to have those selection headaches but it worked OK.”
While Australia’s bowling was top shelf, with the added bonus of Glenn Maxwell claiming the first wicket opening the bowling to finish with 1-24 from his four overs, the top order batting continues to struggle.
Coming off minor knee surgery, Finch failed to score, slashing to deep third man in a somewhat unlucky dismissal, while David Warner hit three boundaries before being caught from an uppish drive for 14.
“There were some really good signs from Davy Warner,” Langer said. “He pulled (Kagiso) Rabada for four, played a beautiful cover drive, he played a great cut shot and then one held up on his bat a bit.
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“And he is in unbelievable physical condition. You don’t just get that, you’ve got to work very hard, so that’s a very good sign. I’m really confident he’ll come good.
“I thought Finchy’s captaincy was brilliant. He had knee surgery and it might take a little bit of time to get moving. I don’t think it’s so much a mental thing for him, [more] just getting back into some rhythm and getting used to his leg feeling good again.
“They’re a world-class opening partnership and I honestly believe if those two get going that’s going to set us up for real success in this tournament.”
Langer expects runs to be at a premium in T20 World Cup
Source: Philippines Alive
