South Africa are preparing to face New Zealand in the T20 World Cup semi-final. After a string of past disappointments in World Cups, the team is now considered by some to be the favourite. They have won all seven of their matches in this tournament.
South Africa Embrace the Favourites Tag
Coach Shukri Conrad stated he is happy for South Africa to be considered favourites. He believes it is easier to be an underdog. South Africa will play New Zealand in Kolkata on Wednesday.
Captain Aiden Markram was previously asked to put into words their defeat in the 2024 final. The Proteas lost by seven runs. Eight of the players from that final are in the current squad, including Markram.
Conrad said the players have learned so much about themselves from that experience. He added that Markram has been fantastic both with bat in hand and as a leader. Markram remains an impressive and calm leader.
Markram’s Improved Form and South Africa’s Strengths
At the 2024 tournament Markram only scored 123 runs across nine innings. This time, he is the tournament’s third-highest run-scorer with 263 runs. Faf du Plessis credits Markram’s development in the Indian Premier League for his improved form.
Du Plessis noted the IPL demanded that players play in a more aggressive way. South Africa’s performances have been well-rounded to this point.
- Led by Markram, they have the highest batting run-rate across the tournament.
- They also have the highest number of balls per dismissal.
- Their run-rate in the middle overs is the highest of all teams.
Bowling Prowess
It has not been all about the batting for South Africa. They have the best bowling economy across the tournament. Through the skill of Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, they have taken three more powerplay wickets than any other side.
Despite everything that has come before, the question remains: is now the time to trust South Africa to go all of the way?