Pretoria Capitals’ journey to their second SA20 final has been powered by the wealth of experience brought in by head coach Sourav Ganguly and assistant coach Shaun Pollock, according to England fast bowler Tymal Mills. The Capitals’ impressive campaign highlights how strong leadership and tactical knowledge off the field can translate into consistent performances on it.
Ganguly, the former India captain, stepped into his first full head coach role this season after previously serving as director of cricket for the franchise. Alongside him is Pollock, the legendary South African all-rounder, who has returned to coaching duties after spending much of his post-retirement career in commentary. Together, the duo have helped guide Pretoria Capitals to a second-place finish in the group stage and a dominant victory over Sunrisers Eastern Cape in Qualifier 1, securing a place in the final for the first time since the tournament’s inaugural edition in 2023.
For Mills, who has claimed five wickets across five matches, the influence of the coaching staff has been clear both tactically and culturally. Speaking about his experience, the former England international described the environment within the Capitals camp as highly positive, with a strong balance between professionalism and enjoyment.
Mills highlighted Ganguly’s commitment as a defining feature of the team’s success. Known for his intense approach during his playing career, Ganguly has brought the same mindset into coaching. According to Mills, the Indian great is deeply involved in every aspect of preparation, spending significant time reviewing match footage, analysing opposition strengths and weaknesses, and engaging players in discussions about strategy.
Ganguly’s hands-on involvement has resonated with the squad. Players have responded positively to his clarity of thought and his ability to simplify complex game situations. His calm authority and deep understanding of the game have helped foster belief within the team, especially during high-pressure moments in the competition.
Alongside Ganguly’s measured leadership, Pollock has added a different but equally valuable dynamic. Mills described the former Proteas captain as energetic, enthusiastic, and endlessly engaging. Pollock’s vast experience, accumulated across a distinguished international career and years observing the game from the commentary box, has proven invaluable during training sessions and match preparation.
Pollock’s ability to communicate subtle technical details, particularly to bowlers, has stood out. Mills explained that informal conversations during training often turn into learning moments, with Pollock offering small but impactful insights that players can immediately apply on the field. His storytelling and approachable nature have also helped keep morale high in the camp, especially during the long stretches of the tournament.
The combination of Ganguly’s strategic sharpness and Pollock’s practical, player-focused approach has created a well-rounded coaching setup. Mills believes that tapping into the combined experience of two former international captains has been one of the Capitals’ biggest advantages this season. Both coaches understand the mental demands of elite cricket and have helped players manage pressure while maintaining clarity in their roles.
Pretoria Capitals’ run to the final has not been without challenges. After narrowly missing out on a title appearance in previous seasons, the franchise entered this campaign determined to make a statement. Finishing second in the league stage reflected their consistency, but it was their composed performance in Qualifier 1 against Sunrisers Eastern Cape that truly showcased their growth.
That victory sent them directly into the final, while Sunrisers were forced to play Qualifier 2, which they eventually won to book their place in a fourth consecutive SA20 final. The stage is now set for a high-stakes showdown between two sides with contrasting journeys but a shared hunger for silverware.
From Mills’ perspective, the Capitals’ success is as much about the environment created off the field as the performances delivered on it. He emphasized that feeling supported, challenged, and engaged by the coaching staff has allowed players to express themselves freely during matches.
The presence of respected figures like Ganguly and Pollock has also brought an added sense of credibility to the setup. Younger players, in particular, have benefited from being able to learn directly from individuals who have experienced the highs and lows of international cricket.
As Pretoria Capitals prepare for the final, confidence within the camp remains high. Mills and his teammates believe they have maximised the opportunity to learn from their coaching staff, turning experience into execution. Whether or not they lift the trophy, the Capitals’ season already stands as an example of how thoughtful leadership and collaboration can drive progress in franchise cricket.
With the SA20 final approaching, the Capitals will once again rely on the calm guidance of Ganguly and the infectious energy of Pollock. For Mills, the journey so far has been thoroughly enjoyable, and he hopes it will culminate in a title that reflects the hard work and unity built throughout the season.
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