World Cup 2023 Semifinal SA vs AUS | Can South Africa overcome the knockout phobia and Australia?
The Hindu
South Africa must confront ghosts of WCs past vs Aus. Proteas have regrets galore, especially in knockout matches. Aussies have been forged into ruthless machines by Border, Waugh, Ponting & Clarke. South Africa whipped Aus in league stage, but Aussies know how to turn it on when it matters. Rain could be only dampener in thrilling contest.
As a semifinal clash with Australia approaches on Thursday, it is time for South Africa to confront the ghost of World Cups past. There are regrets galore, especially when it comes to knockout matches and Australia.
The spirit reveals the most distressing vision of the 1999 World Cup semifinal, when Allan Donald and Lance Klusener sunk into brain fade mode to let the Aussies through to the final. Travel to 2007, where a shocking South African batting collapse made it an easy day out for Australia in another last-four game.
Even going all the way back to 1992, South Africa exited the semifinal stage at the hands of a cruel rain rule. From needing 22 runs off 13 balls when showers interrupted play, Brian McMillan and Dave Richardson returned to the crease with an impossible task of getting 21 runs from one delivery.
Two quarterfinal defeats, in 1996 and 2011, and semifinal slip in 2015, add to South Africa’s nightmares. These repeated reverses have led to many terming the national team as “chokers” — the equivalent of a harsh cuss word in the world of professional sport.
This South African squad may not carry these scars, but captain Temba Bavuma was honest to admit that players feel “anxiety” heading into this pressure match.
At the Eden Gardens, the Proteas will be desperate to finally let go of all the pain. Only a win can create a new, positive discourse.
Australia’s record in crunch games, on the other hand, is second to none. Through the years, the sides have been forged into ruthless machines by the likes of Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke — World Cup-winning captains all.
FIFA adopts new protocols to support players during pregnancy, following the birth of their children
FIFA introduces new maternity leave rules for players and coaches, aiming to support their well-being and family life.