Proteas and Aussies

I was just sitting around thinking what a pity it was that South Africa and Australia have never fielded a joint team. (Come to think of it, what a pity that England and Australia have never fielded a joint team - the 'home country' that still contributes the Union Jack to the Australian Flag, and its favorite son, but I digress). The two teams have so much in common; they speak the same language (English; some speak Strine and some speak Afrikaans, but thats only a minor difference); they both like to sledge a lot; they both field well; they both come from a culture that likes rugby (well, in New South Wales they do); they even share a religion (minor denominational differences aside). Frankly, South Africa and Australia have more in common than India and Pakistan (Australia and England have even more in common; why don't they field a common team?). So, I go to thinking, and came up with the following XI. Comments are welcome, but I'm not sure I'll make any changes.

Captain: Hanse Cronje (only a rogue would keep this lot in check)

Wicketkeeper: Ian Healy (only because Warne is in the team: see below)

Allrounder: Shaun Pollock (Australia are good at everything but they can't produce an allrounder)

Pace Bowlers: Alan Donald; Glen McGrath;

Spinners: Shane Warne

Batsmen: Jacques Kallis, Ricky Ponting, (Matthew Hayden and Graeme Smith will open given their intense rapport)

Specialist Fielder: Jonty Rhodes

I challenge you to pick a team to beat that. What a combination. And all that Christian goodness on the ground. Mmmm...makes me want to go watch this team right now.

Coming soon - the Mightiest Anglo-Australian outfit of all time.