As the 2024 T20 World Cup final approaches, South Africa’s unlikely rise to the top has made them a dark horse in their clash against Team India, seeking their maiden World Cup title. Despite India’s impressive recent form, including a 68-run trouncing of England, South Africa’s resurgence has brought them to the doorstep of victory.
India’s experience and recent success cannot be ignored, but their mental struggles in finals have been well-documented. Since winning the 2013 Champions Trophy, they have lost their previous five ICC finals across formats, often under similar circumstances. On the other hand, South Africa’s uncharted territory in World Cup finals could prove an advantage, as they have already overcome a similar wrecked history in the semifinal.
South Africa’s ability to come clutch in close games has been a significant factor in their World Cup run. They have won a series of nerve-wracking finishes against Sri Lanka, the Netherlands, Bangladesh, and Nepal, as well as withstanding late surges from the USA and England in the Super Eights. This trend is likely to continue into the final, making them confident in their ability to navigate a tight contest.
Aiden Markram (Via Aiden Markram/Twitter)
Recent results between India and South Africa also favor the Proteas. South Africa have won three of their previous four T20Is against India, including a five-wicket win in their last meeting in 2022. The core of both teams has remained similar, indicating that South Africa has a template in place to outdo India in the shortest format.
Aiden Markram, South Africa’s captain, is a key factor in their success. His impressive captaincy record speaks for itself, with him leading the Proteas to eight consecutive wins thus far in the World Cup. His experience of leading SunRisers Eastern Cape to back-to-back titles in the SA 20, as well as his heroics in the 2014 Under-19 World Cup, make it difficult to bet against him guiding his team to their maiden World Cup title.
As the final approaches, South Africa’s unlikely rise to the top has brought them closer to their maiden World Cup title. India’s experience and recent success cannot be ignored, but South Africa’s resurgence and ability to come clutch in close games has made them a formidable opponent. The final showdown between these two teams promises to be an electrifying contest, with South Africa seeking their maiden World Cup title against Team India.
