Table of Contents
For decades, South Africa have been considered one of the cricketing powerhouses, consistently ranking among the top teams. However, their performances in the ICC ODI World Cups have not reflected their status. Despite coming close on several occasions, they have never been able to clinch the elusive World Cup trophy. Their journey in previous editions has been marked by heartbreak and unfulfilled expectations.
South Africa’s recent ODI form
In recent times, South Africa have shown signs of resurgence in the One Day International (ODI) format. Their performance graph has been on an upward trajectory, and they have demonstrated their mettle against formidable opponents. A notable achievement is their remarkable comeback against Australia in a five-game ODI series, where they overcame a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2. This victory showcased their ability to adapt, fight back, and triumph in high-pressure situations.
Kagiso Rabada’s role
As an integral part of the Proteas’s bowling attack, Kagiso Rabada acknowledged the responsibility that comes with his seniority in the team. He relished the challenge of helping captain Temba Bavuma chart the team’s path to success. He has embraced the role of an elder statesman within the squad and is eager to contribute to the team’s success.
“The 2019 World Cup was my first and I wasn’t successful at all. The lesson I took from that is that team cohesion is the most important factor, because individuals don’t win World Cups, teams do. The older I have become and the more caps I have, the more I realize that I am a leader in that environment,” Rabada was quoted as saying by ICC.
“Through knowing my own strengths and reinforcing them, knowing what makes me tick, and through lending an ear to other players, I want to help set how we play as a collective,” the 28-year-old added.
Also READ: Rahul Dravid spills beans on the possibility of Ravichandran Ashwin’s inclusion in India’s squad for ODI World Cup 2023
Rabada on South Africa’s chances
Rabada embodied the team’s renewed spirit. Despite facing setbacks with injuries to key fast bowlers Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala, Rabada remains optimistic about the team’s chances.
“One thing we have never lacked as South Africans is belief, so going into the tournament we do believe we can win it. We’ve got the players to do so, so hopefully we can make our first final and win this competition,” the right-arm speedster stated.
“It’s going to be hard but it’s going to be really enjoyable. It’s exciting to have the best players in the world playing against each other and competing for one prize, and we are up for the challenge,” the Johannesburg-born cricketer further said.
World Cup preparation
South Africa’s preparations for the global-showpiece event commence with warm-up fixtures against Afghanistan and New Zealand. These games offer a crucial opportunity for the team to fine-tune their strategies and assess their form ahead of the tournament. The Proteas’ World Cup journey officially begins on October 7 in New Delhi, where they face Sri Lanka in their opening match.
With Rabada’s unwavering confidence and determination, South Africa aspires to break their World Cup jinx and make a formidable impact in the upcoming tournament.
