Last week before the first ODI Jacob Oram acknowledged that his role within the BLACKCAPS had changed and he earned his place in the current side on the back of his consistent bowling as opposed to his all-round capability.
In recent seasons Oram has put more emphasis on his bowling, the area he thought he was able to add the most value at international level. However he maintained that his batting skills were still there and he would be ready to deliver if required.
Yesterday against Zimbabwe Oram was called upon and his response did not disappoint.
The Central Stags all-rounder came in to bat at number three in the second ODI in Whangerei and provided the sort of fireworks that helped his career to take off.
Oram’s innings followed a superb opening partnership of 131 between Rob Nicol and Martin Guptill.
The 33 year-old came in to take advantage of a powerplay and delivered brilliantly with a blistering 59 from just 28 balls.
“Today was really nice and it only takes a few out of the middle and you sort of remember the feeling again,” said Oram.
“It wasn’t exactly six and out, but it was have some fun and see how we go.
“(It was an) Outstanding track. It was right up there with one of the best I’ve played on in New Zealand.”
It seems all the stars aligned for Oram, who also put in a notable performance with the ball, as he collected figures of three for 29 from ten overs. Such an effort would usually ensure the man of the match award, but he was thwarted by what Oram describes as a ‘special’ knock of 146 from Rob Nicol.
But the veteran isn’t perturbed by missing out on any individual accolades, preferring to put his attention elsewhere.
“We won comfortably.
“We’ve just got to nail them again in Napier, three nil and then go into the Twenty20s with the same attitude, because obviously around the corner next week is the big fish – South Africa.”
It looks like the crowd is again no longer safe when Big Jake comes into bat.
