South Africa keen to shed chokers’ tag
Since readmission in 1991, South Africa have never reached a World Cup final and has usually been the architect of its own downfall. That reputation for choking will have to change if the team is to challenge for the Twenty20 World Cup.
“We have had a wonderful past 12 months, which has included winning away Test series in both England and Australia and winning home-and-away One-Day International series against Australia to gain top spot in the world rankings,” captain Graeme Smith said. “One of the boxes we still want to tick is to win a major ICC Championship.”
In 1999, Allan Donald was run out on the last ball of the Proteas’ semi-final against Australia in the 50-over World Cup, needing only to avoid losing a wicket to go through. The embarrassment was even more acute in 2003, when Shaun Pollock’s side miscalculated the run rate needed to beat Sri Lanka in a rain-affected match and was eliminated in the group stage. South Africa hosted the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup in 2007, but failed to reach the semi-finals.
Smith has led his side to Test series wins in England and Australia in recent times and now the opening batsman is looking for fresh success. “I think there is a lot more talent, flair and confidence among this team than ever before,” said Smith.
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