Since the team is now regularly competing well into major events, expectations have unavoidably increased. South African bowler Kagiso Rabada feels that playing in a home World Cup shouldn’t be viewed as an additional burden. Instead, the fast bowler believes it may give South Africa a sense of independence and need to protect their country.
The eagerly anticipated ICC ODI World Cup 2027 would be co-hosted by eight sites in South Africa, three in Zimbabwe, and one in Namibia. Since South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya co-hosted the ODI World Cup in 2003, this is the first time it has taken place in Africa. Using a 14-team competition system, nations will vie for the premier one-day international title in the sport.
At the official Cricket World Cup 2027 venue and brand announcement ceremony in Johannesburg recently, Rabada told the ICC, “Well, I think there’s a lot more to it with us hosting it.”
It also resembles freedom. We play at home, so I don’t feel the pressure to win. We feel as tho we are defending this stronghold at home. And I interpret it that way. The goal is to represent the badge.
Inspired by the well-known Wasim Akram
Wasim Akram’s game-winning performance against England in the 1992 World Cup final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground is one of the occasions that has inspired the South African quick the most.
Akram put on a fantastic display in the final, dismissing Allan Lamb and Chris Lewis in back-to-back deliveries as Pakistan won their first World Cup. Rabada is still particularly inspired by the famous left-armer’s presence and intensity on the biggest stage because he is a fast bowler himself.
“Wasim Akram against England in the final is one World Cup moment from the past that I’ll never forget because I’m a bowler and I’m going to the bowlers’ club.” Rabada went on, “He just cleaned up (the stumps) and put on a show to take it home for his country and show the passion and the skill.”
Rabada will undoubtedly take the final step.
South Africa’s recent results have also strengthened Rabada’s belief that the Proteas have what it takes to win a significant ICC tournament.
“We have demonstrated our ability to compete in both the semifinals and the finals. That final step is all that matters. Thus, there is confidence. Rabada concluded, “The belief is undoubtedly there; it’s just about taking that extra step.”
