Zeecric BureauKolkata: India beat South Africa in the second and the final Test match here on Thursday to retain the top spot in the format, all thanks to an inspiring ‘South African’ motivator!
With all due respect, it is neither Coach Gary Kirsten nor Paddy Upton that we are talking about. We, here, are talking about a South African explorer who with his inspirational speech helped India hold on to their No. 1 Test spot. The inspiration behind India`s Eden victory was Mike Horn!
Yes, you heard it right! Mike Horn is the reason why Team India could display grit and courage in the dramatic final session of the 2nd Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Thursday.
In an interview to an Indian news channel after the win, Horn said, “The morale of the players was down in the last session. But there was no doubt in the mind of the players that if they could pick up that crucial one wicket, they would be back as the No.1 team.”
A thirty-minute sitting with world’s greatest explorer and review session with players on the final day of the 2nd Test propelled Team India to emerge triumphant in the crucial Kolkata Test, which had the potential to dethrone India from the top Test spot had they lost it.India’s dashing opener Gautam Gambhir admitted that it was the meeting with Horn that ‘inspired’ them. “Horn’s session inspired us and lifted our spirits on the final day.”
Laxman too agreed to the same and said that Horn’s each word was like a mantra to win the Eden’s Test. “Block the negative thoughts” was something which he learned from Horn’s 30 minute session.
Horn adds, “Its is great that block out negative thoughts has been written in the dressing room and have been able to impress these cricketers.”
Taking a cue from the Test Champions, Graeme Smith is now keen to rope in Mike Horn to help the No. 2 Test side shed the chokers tag.
First Published: Friday, February 19, 2010, 00:00
(The views expressed by the author are personal)
