The fast bowlers partied that night. They hired a band and ordered champagne. The cricket team was 122 runs for 2 wickets by the end of the day, needing 201 runs to win in their first Test since being allowed back into international cricket. They were led by Kepler Wessels, who had played for Australia before.
The next morning, West Indies’ Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh bowled aggressively on a tricky pitch. South Africa lost their last eight wickets quickly and were defeated by 51 runs. It was their second disappointment in six months since returning to international cricket. Little did they know then that such heartbreaks would define South African cricket for decades.
Kensington Oval in Barbados is known for breaking hearts. Five years later, India needed only 118 runs with all wickets intact to win their first match there. But West Indies’ bowlers, including Ambrose and Ian Bishop, dismissed them for just 81 runs.
Read More: India Vs South Africa – ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Final: Teams, Weather, Pitch
As the two best teams return to Kensington Oval for the final, the story will focus on heartbreak. Many cricket fans see South Africa and India as “chokers”. South Africa has struggled in knockout matches, losing nine out of eleven. This is their first World Cup final. India has been consistent in limited-overs cricket since 2014 but lacks world titles, with two final losses and four semi-final exits in seven World Cups. This is their third final in eight.
It’s unfair to judge teams based on one match in a volatile format like T20 cricket. Teams like Australia, despite recent World Cup struggles, are still considered strong because of past success.
Players understand this narrative better than anyone. They must cope with the pressure, follow routines, and deal with luck. Before the final, India’s coach and captain checked the pitch, hoping for the same luck they had in a previous match. South Africa’s coach inspected the pitch meticulously, preparing for the big game.
In cricket, as in life, perceptions can be harsh but players must focus on the game ahead.
In press conferences, they often resort to clichés, trying to manage what can’t be controlled, especially in our unpredictable sport, even more so in formats like this. These teams are among the best because they have the right squads for these conditions, prepared meticulously, understood the conditions better, and arrived with superior tactics. These players are experts, honed through intense training and fitness routines, but in the final, they also bring their flair and creativity.
Sometimes, it’s about staying calm, sticking to routines, ensuring consistency. Yet, they must remain vigilant for surprises from the opposition, especially when a team plays with nothing to lose—something these finalists understand well.
Rohit Sharma has known deep frustration: narrowly missing India’s last ODI World Cup win and facing near-misses in knockout matches across formats. This could be his final chance. For Rahul Dravid, who endured heartbreak in the 2007 World Cup and never won a World Cup, this is a crucial opportunity. His brilliant performances in tough conditions may fade if he doesn’t win this time.
South Africa aims to heal their nation after decades of big match disappointments. Former players hope for closure, not new hurdles. With a reserve day planned and uncertain weather ahead, the losing team will have plenty of time to reflect before heading home.
No one’s booking celebratory yachts yet, nor are return flights confirmed. They’re focused on the final while trying not to dwell too much on it, balancing intensity with composure, as much as possible in the world of sport. India and South Africa T20 World Cup update!
