Newlands Test buzz papers over gaping crack of bailed-out WP’s administrative malaise

Newlands remains a darling for fans, but it’s a facade.

The sizeable crowds expected at Newlands for the second and final Test between the Proteas and India commencing on Wednesday will undoubtedly be greeted with a vibrant incarnation of the hallowed venue.

Licks of new paint will be evident, seats would have been repaired or replaced and the small scoreboard, it is understood, should be working again.

Allied to the inherent charm of South Africa’s second-oldest cricket ground derived from a particular mountain and sitting under the row of oaks on the Eastern boundary, everything would appear picture perfect as always.