President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his best wishes to the South African men’s senior cricket team ahead of their historic 2024 ICC T20 World Cup final against India on Saturday.
“On behalf of all South Africans, I wish captain Aiden Markram and Proteas the best for your historic ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final against India in Barbados on Saturday,” Ramaphosa said on X.
“We look forward to seeing your final tenacity, talent with bat and ball, and our beautiful flag on display in the Kensington Oval Stadium.
Urged to repeat Springbok glory
“And of course, we’re looking forward to hosting another championship team and trophy at the Union Buildings,” Ramaphosa added. He was referencing the Springboks’ 2023 Rugby World Cup triumph last year.
The Proteas made history by reaching their first-ever cricket World Cup final on Thursday. This after thrashing Afghanistan by nine wickets during their semi-final encounter.
South Africa is now on the cusp of greatness. They will also be looking to clinch their first-ever cricket world title.
The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture also congratulated the Proteas and urged them to bring the trophy home.
“Well done to the Proteas men on reaching the ICC T20 World Cup final. You have made the nation proud. Bring it home, Proteas,” the department said.
Facing a strong and experienced Indian side
Coach Rob Walter and his men go up against a strong and experienced Indian side. It is a side that crushed England during their semi-final clash on Thursday night.
India will be making their third T20 World Cup final, having previously played in two limited-overs finals. They also won the inaugural competition, which was held in 2007 in South Africa.
The Proteas’ road to a final was a roller-coaster. This as most of their wins were close games. They kept staunch South African cricket supporters back home on the edge of their seats in the wee hours of the morning.
South Africa is still unbeaten in eight matches. They will look to close off their World Cup campaign in style by lifting the prestigious trophy.
The Proteas and India will collide at the Kensington Oval, in Bridgetown, Barbados. The first ball set to be bowled at 4.30pm (SA time).
