New Delhi: 25 years! Yes, that’s how long the South Africans had to wait to register their name in the Finals of a major ICC Tournament. Traditionally, known as ‘chokers’ for decades, the Proteas are led by their ice-cool captain Aiden Markram.
Interestingly, Markram was also captain of the U-19 side that won the silverware in 2014. Now, 10 years later he will lead the side against Rohit and Co. in the finals at Bridgetown.
So close! Yet so far….
South Africa’s tryst with the ICC tournaments has always been a touch-and-go affair. The Proteas have come within touching distance but have failed to complete the task on each occasion. Everyone remembers the DLS fiasco and the distraught face of Lance Klusener as he saw the Aussies go to the finals.
The same story repeated in 2003 as well and the rain gods again became the final obstruction between the Proteas and the finals. Fast forward to 4 years later, the Proteas once again bottled an easy game against India to see the exit door at the inaugural edition of the 2007 T20 World Cup.
Another epic semi-final of which the Proteas have an unforgettable memory was the 2015 semi-final. In a closely contested match, the Proteas lost the match at the penultimate stage as Grant Elliott hit a six to end the dreams of AB de Villiers and Co. Ironically, Elliott was born in South Africa and was one of the many cricketers who had drifted apart to find more cricketing promise.
South Africa vs India- The Dream Finale
South Africa and India not only share a special affection towards cricket but also have a shared history of sports and politics for a long time. However, when they meet on the field on Saturday, both sides will be eagerly waiting to get their hands on the trophy.
While the South Africans have walked a long way from their tag of ‘chokers’, India will look to end their long wait for their silverware since the days of MSD. As such the only question that remains is can Markram turn out to be the emancipator who can purge the disdain that grips South African cricket and give it a new identity?