India aims to break their global title drought while South Africa seeks to overcome their ‘chokers’ tag at Kensington Oval on Saturday, as the tournament’s unbeaten sides clash in the Twenty20 World Cup final.
Both teams have displayed flawless campaigns and secured convincing victories in the semi-finals, leaving no doubt about their status as the top two teams in the 20-team tournament final in Bridgetown.
Following South Africa’s halt to Afghanistan’s fairytale run in the first semi-final in Trinidad and India’s termination of England’s title defense in Guyana, India has reached their third consecutive final in a global event across all formats.
Captain Rohit Sharma is optimistic that India, who endured defeats in the finals of the World Test Championship and the 50-overs home World Cup last year, will finally clinch the title.
For both Rohit, 37, and stalwart Virat Kohli, 35, this T20 World Cup might be their final appearance, making winning the trophy a perfect farewell for them.
India appears well-equipped with both strategy and personnel to achieve this goal.
At the top of the batting order, Rohit exemplifies India’s aggressive batting approach, valuing consistent attacking performances over relying on individual match-winning innings.
Their spin trio has been instrumental in the latter stages of the tournament, complemented by the formidable pace of Jasprit Bumrah, who has been almost unplayable.
Rohit credits India’s strong run to a composed dressing room atmosphere.
“We understand the significance of the occasion but maintaining calmness and composure is crucial for us,” he emphasized.
“This approach helps us make sound decisions throughout the 40 overs.”
India’s only concern heading into the final appears to be Kohli’s struggle for runs, although Rohit expresses confidence in his partner’s form.
“We recognize his class. With 15 years of experience, form is never a concern,” he reassured.
“He’s probably saving his best for the final.”
No more ‘chokers’?
Meanwhile, South Africa faces a test of nerves as they aim to shed their reputation of faltering in crucial moments, having reached their first World Cup final across all formats after seven semi-final disappointments.
Their pace attack has been consistently effective, rescuing them when their batsmen faltered.
Opener Quinton de Kock has utilized his experience from the Caribbean Premier League effectively, supported by a powerful middle-order lineup.
In Aiden Markram, South Africa has found a steady leader who has led them unbeaten in 10 matches as captain.
Reiterating the team’s motivation, Markram stated, “Reaching the final is a personal and collective drive, aiming to lift the trophy.”
“We believe in our ability to compete with the best and win trophies. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us…”
