Historically, South Africa has been a formidable force in international cricket, excelling in all three formats of the game. They have boasted numerous standout players who could unsettle their opponents. Despite having a strong lineup, they haven’t pursued the ICC ODI World Cup victory thus far, falling short of reaching the final. Their upcoming participation in the tournament represents an opportunity to prove their worth.
Recently, South African cricketers arrived in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, to engage in warm-up matches at the Greenfield International Stadium. Regrettably, their first warm-up game against Afghanistan on September 29 was abandoned due to persistent rain. Currently, the Proteas are facing New Zealand in their second warm-up game.
Prior to South Africa’s second warm-up match, Kagiso Rabada gained attention for his attempt to speak Hindi, and a humorous video of the incident has gone viral on various social media platforms. The Instagram reel features Kagiso Rabada engaging with two individuals from South Bombay. As the locals try to explain the etiquette of Mumbai’s local trains, the South African cricket star playfully responds in Hindi, saying, “Beta, papa ko mat sikhao! (Son, don’t teach your father!)”
The video began with a relaxed conversation and concluded with all three of them dancing, providing genuine entertainment. The highly anticipated mega tournament is just around the corner, with New Zealand facing England in the tournament opener at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. South Africa’s World Cup journey kicks off on October 7th when they go up against Sri Lanka at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
Kagiso Rabada believes that South Africa is poised to make a lasting impression in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. He expressed, “As South Africans, confidence has never been in short supply. We enter the competition with a strong belief in our abilities. With the talent we possess, we aspire to reach our first-ever tournament final and clinch the trophy. The journey will be tough but also immensely rewarding,” as quoted by the ICC.