It’s a massive game: Allan Donald

Melbourne: South Africa bowling coach Allan Donald says his team’s biggest challenge in Sunday’s World Cup blockbuster against India will be to adjust to the intimidating aura of the Melbourne Cricket Ground. More than 80,000 people, mostly India supporters, are expected to pack the iconic stadium for the key Pool ‘B’ match which will almost certainly assure the winner of a place in the quarterfinals.

Donald, a former fast bowler nicknamed ‘White Lightning’, hoped his players would relish the occasion of playing in one of the world’s most famous cricket stadiums.“You just have to walk out there, even when these stands are empty. It’s an intimidating place,” the 48-year-old was quoted on Friday.

“It’s a home game for India. There could be almost 100,000 people here and there is going to be a lot of Indian support, so keeping the crowd quiet is going to be a big thing,” he added. “It’s a massive game. South Africa vs India, MCG ... This is why we play for our country.”