Conrad delivers perfect Lord's Father's Day present with Aussie victory

AS a pivotal moment in South Africa’s cricket history approached, Shukri Conrad paused to reflect on the loss of his father, Sedick, one of the finest cricketers of his generation, who passed away two months ago.

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

“Ta Dickie, as he was affectionately known, was Conrad’s biggest supporter, and, of course, also his biggest critic.

“He was immensely proud when his son, Shukri, was appointed Proteas coach and of the hot streak they had enjoyed in qualifying for the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. He would undoubtedly have been smiling down from the heavens above on the most glorious of Saturdays at Lord’s when Temba Bavuma lifted the ICC golden mace after beating the arch-enemy Australia to be crowned world champions.

“With two runs to go I remembered the old man saying to me: ‘I just want to see you beat Australia one day,’ Conrad said after the five-wicket victory that set off immense celebrations both in London and back home.