Never write off the Aussies, says Dean Elgar

Dean Elgar Photo: Muzi Ntombela

Dean Elgar Photo: Muzi Ntombela

Published Nov 10, 2016

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Hobart - Proteas opener Dean Elgar has dismissed his former captain Graeme Smith’s comments about the Australian team and insists the visitors are wary of the home side’s “bouncebackability” in this upcoming second Test.

Speaking at gala dinner at the SCG where he and former Australia captain Bill Lawry were made honourees of the Bradman Foundation in Sydney, Smith said Australia are in “turmoil” and that “something is not right” with their team culture after the crushing first Test defeat to the Proteas earlier this week.

“If he has said that I'm sure that's just his personal dig,” Elgar, who made his Test debut under Smith’s leadership, told the media in Hobart on Thursday. “I don't think there is a culture issue within the Australian side. We know they're still a dangerous team and they can bounce back in the second Test.

“Them being beaten in the first Test is working in their favour because they can bounce back, and we're aware of their bouncebackability. It's just human nature to withdraw into yourself because of what you're going through. But they can bounce back hard,” the opened added.

Elgar struck a career-best 127 at the WACA which formed part of a match-winning 250-run partnership with fellow centurion JP Duminy. The left-hander showed great courage, determination and patience to keep the Australian bowlers at bay for 316 balls on an intensely hot Saturday in Perth.

It certainly took its toll on the Aussie bowlers with veteran paceman Peter Siddle ruled out of this Hobart Test with a back injury while spearhead Mitchell Starc is also a high injury risk according to medical data. Taking this all into consideration, are the Aussies ripe for picking then?

“Complacency is a big thing for us. That's something we've addressed as a team. It's a new Test, a new challenge and a new venue for us,” he said.

Elgar also played down comparisons with him and Smith, despite his similar dogged nature at the crease.

“I don't think as a batter I ever looked at him and thought I'd like to emulate his similar technique but his attitude, the way he played the game and the way he conducted himself on and off the field is something I've definitely looked up to,” said Elgar.

“I think that's just my nature to try and irritate opposition to be honest with you, I don't think I'm practising it, it just comes naturally. But if that's the way they feel about it, it's not a bad thing.”

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