Men or women, the South African cricket team is notorious for choking at the last hurdle when it comes to global events. However, star batter Rassie van der Dussen believes it's not a matter that bothers the players.
Asked by Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) whether the team discusses how to avoid choking in crucial moments — a trait often linked with South African cricket — Dussen acknowledged the external chatter.
Yes, there has been a lot of talk, especially by other people, so we will see. It's great to be in the semi-final, and it shows our consistency in performance.
If South Africa beat New Zealand in the semi-final in Lahore, they are likely to face India in the final in Dubai. Dussen, who played a match-winning knock of 72 not out in the team's chase of a modest 180-run target against England, emphasised the importance of applying pressure in key moments.
If we do play against India, then we know they will be accustomed to the conditions in Dubai, having been there for a few weeks. The challenge for us is to acclimatise as soon as possible so we can put them under pressure.
Dussen also dismissed concerns about adjusting between different venues.
I don't think it matters if the conditions are different in Pakistan when we play New Zealand in Lahore and then the final in Dubai. There is a little bit of spin, so some technical adjustments will have to be made.
Reflecting on South Africa’s preparation for the Champions Trophy, he highlighted the benefits of playing a tri-series beforehand.
I think a few players coming here before the Champions Trophy is important. I have played in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) a few times, so we know the conditions. The bounce is skiddier and lower, so we have discussed the game plan and strategies. It’s not as much bounce as in South Africa, so technical adjustments are needed.
Dussen concluded by stressing the importance of focusing on the process rather than results.
Results are not in your control, so as a team, we continue to try and do the right things. We have hard-working individuals, and that translates into results and match-winning performances.
