Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has shared the winning mantra with the South Africa team as they prepare for their maiden T20 World Cup final appearance against India. South Africa booked their place in the title clash with a dominant performance against Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2024's first semi-final. Now, they face an unbeaten Indian side, both teams seeking their first ICC trophy in this format.
Ponting, a three-time World Cup champion with Australia and a coach to several South African stars in the Indian Premier League, is known for his exceptional big-match temperament. He plans to connect with a group of Proteas players before the final in Barbados on Saturday, offering valuable advice and insights ahead of this historic clash.
Ponting's message is clear as he wants South African side to no shy away from the pressure. Rather, embrace the magnitude of the occasion and use that energy to fuel their performance in the final.
"A lot of teams say, 'It's just another game,' and they try to hide from the magnitude of the occasion, but that's not helpful. It's all about embracing it for what it is. These players haven't been there before, so enjoy tonight, enjoy tomorrow. But ensure your preparation remains consistent," Ponting said on the ICC's Digital Daily show.
Ponting has full faith in South Africa's abilities. He believes they have the talent to go toe-to-toe with India in the final, urging them to back themselves and showcase their skills on the biggest stage.
ALSO READ: Gutted Jos Buttler regrets committing big blunder after losing to India in T20 World Cup semifinal, says 'In hindsight, I should have...'
ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma breaks silence on Virat Kohli's rusty form after India's win in T20 World Cup semis, says 'when you've played for 15 years...'
“They are undefeated up to now, so they don't need to change anything or try harder. They just need to turn up, be the best version of themselves and their team, and give themselves the best chance. If they do that, they will be hard to beat,” Ponting concluded.
Both India and South Africa have the same ambition, which is to break their respective ICC trophy droughts and potentially remain unbeaten throughout the tournament. India's last T20 World Cup title triumph came way back in 2007. Meanwhile, their most recent ICC title triumph was the 2013 Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni's leadership. They'll be desperate to end this long wait and etch their name on the coveted trophy.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
'Humein na sikhayein reverse swing kaise hota hai...': Pakistan's Inzamam Ul Haq hits back at Rohit Sharma on ball-tampering debate
'Always in favour of India': Shoaib Akhtar lavishes praise on Rohit Sharma ahead of T20 World Cup 2024 final between India and South Africa
