Top-order batter Rassie van der Dussen says the Proteas crew have grown closer collectively as a result of adversity they have handled over the previous couple of years, as they gear up for certainly one of their hardest matches of the Cricket World Cup in opposition to New Zealand on Wednesday.
From social and political points confronted by all South Africans, to international well being considerations raised by Covid, and inner cricket issues addressed by the social justice and nation constructing (SJN) hearings, Van der Dussen admitted on Tuesday the nationwide squad had handled quite a bit on the sidelines within the long-term build-up to the worldwide showpiece.
‘In good stead’
These off-field issues, nonetheless, had solely made them stronger as a unit seeking their maiden World Cup title.
“I think there’s definitely something different in this team… and I think we’re blessed in a sense that we’re in a great space now,” Van der Dussen stated.
“We’ve had to deal with quite a lot of controversy over the last few years, so that’s really put us in good stead.”
Praising the nationwide rugby facet for his or her victory within the World Cup ultimate in France on the weekend, Van der Dussen felt the Springboks had strengthened that sense of unity even additional inside the Proteas squad, because it had finished all through South Africa.
“I think what the Springboks and what sport shows us is that as a country, as South Africa, when you do get things right and you do things the right way, what you can achieve,” he stated.
“That Springbok team, that’s what they are. They’re all hardworking, good South Africans with a real humility about them, a real hunger for success. And for me, it just certainly shows that when you’re willing to put differences aside, what’s possible for a country like ours.”
Playoff contenders
With their spirits raised by the Boks, the second-placed Proteas have been feeling assured heading into their match in opposition to New Zealand, who have been two factors behind them in third spot within the round-robin standings.
They have been hoping to construct even additional momentum within the race for the semi-finals, with solely three matches left within the opening spherical.
“As we hopefully go into the business end of the tournament now, you want to really be at 100%, and I think most of our guys are in a pretty good space,” Van der Dussen stated.
Wednesday’s match between the Proteas and the Black Caps begins at 10.30am (SA time) in Pune.
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