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Former Proteas skipper AB de Villiers has issued a word of caution to South Africa: not to underestimate Australia, even after their defeat to India. He also believes that without their star pacer Anrich Nortje, their team's bowling unit looks a little weak.
He emphasised that a cornered Australian squad can often turn formidable. With their morale soaring, South Africa is scheduled to challenge Australia in Lucknow on Thursday, October 12. Australia faced a humbling seven-wicket loss against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, following their batting collapse, registering a mere 199. India overhauled this total with an ample 52 balls to spare.
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Conversely, South Africa showcased a stellar performance in their opening World Cup match against Sri Lanka in New Delhi. They amassed an awe-inspiring score of 428/5, thereby etching a new high in World Cup tallies. The spotlight was on Rassie van der Dussen, Quinton de Kock, and Aiden Markram, with each of them crafting a century. Markram's inning was especially striking, clocking the fastest World Cup ton in a brisk 49 balls, cementing it as a memorable feat.
The Proteas' bowling ensemble further fortified their dominant win. Despite Sri Lanka's gallant efforts, South Africa's bowlers overwhelmed them. The Lankans chalked up 326 runs but fell short by 102 runs, unable to surmount the Proteas' mountainous score. The South African bowlers showcased discipline, curbing any significant partnerships and keeping the Sri Lankans in check.
Leadership from Sri Lanka's captain, Dasun Shanaka, supplemented by Charith Asalanka and Kusal Mendis, yielded scores of 68, 79, and 76 respectively. Yet, these valiant innings couldn't outpace South Africa's colossal score.
"The Australian bowling attack will ask plenty of questions, but I am confident we can deal with it. It is with the ball that I believe South Africa can win the game," AB de Villiers opined in his ICC column.
"The Aussies will be low on confidence after defeat to India, but a wounded Australia team is very dangerous. It will be crucial to pick up some early wickets to keep that pressure on, something we have not done too well recently. It might sound obvious, but Steve Smith's wicket will be the most important. He holds everything together for Australia and if we can get him out early, I am confident we can get the job done.
All the focus has been on the batters, but this is a huge test for the bowling attack if South Africa wants to be seen as real contenders, especially without Anrich Nortje – no one knows how to get it done at World Cups like Australia," he continued.
Is this the Proteas' year?
AB de Villiers expressed his notion that despite South Africa's roaring onset, subdued expectations from fans might be beneficial. He yearns for the Proteas to retain a low profile throughout their Indian campaign.
"The way South Africa commenced this campaign evokes memories of our 2015 trajectory," de Villiers reminisced, with aspirations for Temba Bavuma's brigade to surpass the highs and lows of the semi-final journey from eight years prior.
"Despite a stunning start to the campaign, expectations amongst fans remain low and the team's good form has gone under the radar. But that is exactly what makes me so excited about South Africa's chances in India," he emphasised.
"In past squads brimming with icons, the weight of expectations often proved overwhelming. The current crop, however, presents a stark contrast. Although there's a dearth of big names, there's an abundance of emerging talents, unencumbered by the spectres of past defeats.
I'm harbouring a sentiment that this might indeed be our year – here's hoping fortune favours us this time," he concluded.
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