South Africa head into the global showpiece as the 2024 runners-up after their heartbreaking seven-run defeat to India in Bridgetown – a final that will live long in the memory. It was the Proteas’ first-ever senior men’s World Cup final, and while the pain still lingers, the experience gained could prove priceless.

Despite falling agonisingly short, there is renewed belief within the camp that this group has what it takes to go one step further this time around. As always at World Cups, fine margins and a bit of fortune will play their part, but confidence is quietly building.

Aiden Markram during the 2024 T20 World Cup final. Photo: Cricinfo

Captain Aiden Markram said the upcoming tournament represents a fresh start – not only for him, but for every player in the squad.

“For me, it feels like a clean slate and a new opportunity. Each player deals with things differently – some use it as motivation, others park it and start fresh – and there’s value in both.

“Personally, I see this as starting from scratch and playing good cricket first in the camp to earn the right to go out and chase a trophy.”

Markram also backed the inclusion of Dolphins batter Jason Smith, who is set to feature in his first World Cup. Smith’s selection raised a few eyebrows, given his limited international exposure and modest record with the bat.

However, Markram believes Smith’s explosive potential could be a game-changer – as shown during South Africa’s narrow six-run DLS defeat to the West Indies in the third and final T20 International at the Wanderers on Saturday.

“Whatever is being said externally is something the player and the environment have to block out, because it’s not the case.”
Jason Smith against Namibia in Windhoek. Photo: Cricinfo

“We saw tonight that he’s a match-winner with the bat when it comes off. He’s played some really impactful knocks before, and we got a glimpse of that in the SA20.

“That’s the role you give a guy like that – walking in late, in big moments. It’s not easy, but he’s got the ability and the potential, which is exactly why he’s in our squad.

“I’m really pleased for him because he kept the game alive for us and nearly got us over the line.”

The Proteas will face reigning world champions India in a warm-up match in Navi Mumbai on Wednesday, with the game scheduled to start at 15:30. South Africa then open their World Cup campaign against Canada on Monday in Ahmedabad.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg