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Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers believes it’s time for the national team to break their 33-year absence from an ICC World Cup final. South Africa is set to face Rohit Sharma’s Indian team in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024’s decisive match at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. This final marks South Africa’s debut in a T20 World Cup final, contrasting with India’s third appearance in such a prestigious event.
Both teams have experienced similar journeys in ICC tournaments since 2013. South Africa has yet to claim a major title, while India’s last international triumph was a decade ago during the Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni’s leadership. Despite multiple final appearances across different formats – including one T20 WC final, one ODI WC final, and two World Test Championship finals – India has not secured victory in these crucial matches.
The Proteas’ historic entry into their first ICC World Cup final reflects their resilience despite past semifinal exits, even under the captaincy of stalwarts like Graeme Smith and AB de Villiers. Aiden Markram, a former U-19 World Cup-winning captain, now has the chance to etch his name in South African cricket history by leading his team to victory.
Facing them is Rohit Sharma’s Indian squad, determined to bounce back after two final losses last year. As the showdown approaches, AB de Villiers acknowledges the challenge ahead and sends a special message to all South African fans ahead of tonight’s finale.
In his latest X video, AB de Villiers confidently predicts that South Africa will secure their maiden World Cup victory. He emphasized that after decades of disappointment, the Proteas have finally reached an ICC final, marking a pivotal moment for the team.
“The moment of truth has arrived. South Africans have been waiting for 33 years to see the Proteas play in an ICC World Cup final. After so many heartbreaks, we know all about them.”
“South Africa will play India in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados on Saturday and I am backing the Proteas to win. It will be close as we all know India are a team of superstars but I believe South Africa’s time has come,” AB de Villiers said on X.
