Conrad delivers perfect Father's Day present with Aussie victory

AS the most poignant juncture in South Africa's cricket history drew closer and the emotions were running at an all-time high, Shukri Conrad took a step back for a moment of reflection.

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

It’s been just two months since Conrad’s father, Sedick - one the finest cricketers of his generation - passed on.

“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 in South Africa.