Austin Smith is leading the South African campaign in the Hockey World Cup. His family is leading the cheers from the stands.
In the city to support their team, the Smiths haven’t lost hope despite South Africa’s twin defeats. “I think our boys are missing the horn-and-trumpet cheer. We aren’t allowed to get those in, but I’m sure they will strike form soon,” says Chris Smith, Austin’s father.
However, mother Precilla Smith is apprehensive.
“They’re a bunch of young boys and lack tactical strategies. They will make up for it with raw power and passion for the game.”
The Smiths say they are enjoying their stay in India. The family from Cape Town says it has never witnessed a more electrifying atmosphere in a hockey match.
“It’s like a carnival in the stands. And when the home team plays, it’s thunderous,” said Allison Smith, Austin’s sister, referring to the India-Pakistan match.
They are all extremely happy with the security blanket provided to the team. As Precilla puts it, “I’d rather have a lot of it (security) than none of it for my boy.”