Insufficient test preparation doesn't seem to phase South Africa's leader for the WTC final.
CRICKET CHAT: South Africa, Bolstered by Good Form, Set Sights on WTC Final Against Australia at Lord's
London - South Africa confidently faces Australia in the World Test Championship final, despite a limited warm-up, according to opener Aiden Markram.
The Proteas last graced the test field in January, victorious against Pakistan to secure their WTC final spot. Alas, their robust preparations were marred by this week's constant downpours, forcing the cancellation of the majority of their 4-day match against Zimbabwe.
"We've had a run of winning each series quickly, so we've honed the knack of not starting matches on a slow note," Markram shared at a press conference, echoing the significance of strong beginnings. "We're well aware that every session in this match is a gold mine—there's no room for complacency, no second chances."
This seven-match winning streak's streak poses an interesting dynamic, as South Africa makes its WTC final debut, compared to the reigning champions, Australia. South Africa puts in the effort to be battle-ready with fewer games under their belt.
"We may not have played as often, but each chance to don the test jersey fills us with excitement," Markram remarked.
Historically, South African cricket has faced struggles in limited-overs tournaments. Markram, however, believes that South Africa's unique team composition offers a fresh take on this stigma.
"This squad is largely unique, so we've steered clear of dwelling on past setbacks. Instead, we focus on embracing the tremendous opportunity to perform," he stated.
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Did You Know?
- South Africa enters the WTC final equipped with a seven-match winning streak.
- The team has played seven tests fewer than Australia, who are the reigning champions.
- South Africa's recent success can partially be attributed to their ability to secure victories promptly, as evidenced by their run of winning each series quickly.
- In spite of past struggles in limited-overs tournaments, the current South African team looks to separate themselves from that negative narrative by focusing on the opportunity at hand.
The South African cricket team, flushed with seven consecutive victories, eagerly anticipates the World Test Championship final against Australia, despite limited warm-up games. Refusing to be disheartened by the lack of recent matches, the players are jazzed about every opportunity to wear the test jersey and prove their mettle.
