Winning seven matches in a row has given the Proteas a boost of confidence ahead of the T20 World Cup playoffs.
Marco Jansen, the team’s all-rounder, believes the Proteas have already lost the “chokers” label that has haunted them for decades.
The unbeaten Proteas have reached the semifinals of the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2014.
They will face Afghanistan, a surprise package in the tournament, in Trinidad on Thursday at 2.30am.
India will play defending champions England in the other semifinal later on Thursday at 4.30pm.
“In the past, when people labelled us as chokers, or whatever, that’s sort of out of the window in our heads,” Jansen said.
“We obviously know that some people might say that at certain stages, depending on where we are and if we lose, but for us, it’s all about proving those people wrong and changing the narrative for us going forward.”
South Africa has never reached a cricket World Cup final in any format. However, Jansen believes their current performances have boosted their confidence as they aim to make history.
He said that while they know there is still work to be done, the team is not getting ahead of themselves.
“Getting those close wins is obviously not very good for our nerves, but getting the team over the line in different situations and conditions against different opposition can only add confidence to our team going forward,” he said.
“It’s not a case that we think we’re invincible because we know anything can happen, especially in those situations, but we’re just trying to set ourselves up as best as possible to do our best in those types of situations if they come,” Jansen added.
Suppose they defeat Afghanistan, which is ranked five places below South Africa in the T20 world rankings and has never played in a World Cup semifinal. In that case, the Proteas will face India or England in the final on Saturday.
Compiled by Staff Writer
Pictured above: The Proteas.
Source: Proteas/X
