Marco Jansen expressed confidence that South Africa can overcome their knockout stage challenges after defeating England in the Champions Trophy semi-finals. Jansen excelled with 3 wickets and played a crucial role in the game, leading to questions about their mindset and approach, especially against India in the semi-final. The team is assessing the health of its players ahead of this crucial match.
Marco Jansen expressed confidence that South Africa can maintain focus and overcome historical challenges in knockout matches after defeating England to reach the Champions Trophy semi-finals. The 24-year-old fast bowler excelled by taking 3 wickets for 39 runs and making three catches, helping South Africa dismiss England for 179 runs in just 38.2 overs. South Africa successfully chased down the target with relative ease, losing three wickets in 29.1 overs, with key contributions from Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen who scored 72 not out and 64 runs, respectively. Jansen was subsequently named the man of the match.
This victory allowed South Africa to top Group B with five points, while Australia secured second place with four points. Their semi-final opponent will be determined by the outcome of the upcoming India-New Zealand match in Group A scheduled for Sunday in Dubai. South Africa’s historical struggle to succeed in knockout stages has been a point of concern, especially since their last international title in 1998, then known as the ICC Knock-Out tournament.
Jansen remarked that the team does not need to alter their approach significantly for knockout games, noting, “I wouldn’t say the mindset changes, it’s just the occasion that’s probably a bit more hyped up, I guess.” Despite a recent loss to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-finals and a setback to India in the previous year’s T20 World Cup final, Jansen maintains that sticking to processes is vital. He said, “It’s a fancy term, but for me it’s just you have your steps or your guides that you go into every match.”
Furthermore, Jansen indicated that the team’s mentality remains consistent regardless of match importance, suggesting that the situation may alter but not the mental approach. He also pointed out that India is well-acquainted with Dubai’s conditions, having played all their matches there, which could give them an edge. However, he believes South Africa’s familiarity with the conditions can mitigate this advantage, stating, “I just think it all comes down to on the day who plays better.”
The team is currently evaluating the health of their captain, Temba Bavuma, and opener Tony de Zorzi, both of whom were unwell during the match against England. Additionally, stand-in captain Aiden Markram experienced hamstring stiffness and did not bat in that game.
In summary, Marco Jansen is optimistic about South Africa’s performance in the forthcoming knockout matches, emphasizing the importance of adhering to their strategies and processes. He acknowledges past difficulties but believes the team’s mentality remains intact regardless of the pressure. The upcoming semi-final against India holds significance, with the conditions in Dubai playing a crucial role in the match outcome. South Africa’s successful defeat of England highlights their potential, and they are keen to continue this trend.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
