We like the chokers tag, says SA skipper
THE PROTEAS are happy to be known as chokers – as long as they go on winning, says a delighted captain AB de Villiers.
The team produced one of the most clinical performances yet seen from a South African side at a World Cup, to overwhelm Sri Lanka in the first quarter-final by nine wickets with 192 balls to spare.
They dismissed the 1996 world champions for 133 in 37.2 overs, with leg-spinner Imran Tahir taking 4/26, while JP Duminy became the first South African to claim a hat-trick in a World Cup, and finished with figures of 3/ 29. Quinton de Kock returned to form in a timely fashion, stroking an excellent 78 not out as South Africa cruised to victory.
“We like being called chokers, we’ll keep the tag, as long as we keep winning. It’s a great achievement from the team,” said De Villiers.
The South African team will have a relaxing day in Sydney today, reflecting on their historic triumph in the World Cup quarter-final last night, but also casting their minds ahead to Tuesday’s semi-final in Auckland.
The side must wait until Saturday to discover who they will face in the semi-final. New Zealand and the West Indies clash in the last quarterfinal in Wellington to determine South Africa’s opponents.
Yesterday’s victory was quietly
celebrated by the South African players and, despite the significance – being the first knockout victory at a World Cup – De Villiers was not going to get carried away.
“We didn’t have to work too hard for this victory, it was a short game. Yes, there was a lot of emotional energy, but not a lot of physical energy. There is plenty of time for recovery before the semi-finals,” he said.
“I honestly didn’t feel that what we went through today was that strenuous. I’m just very happy we overcame today’s hurdle. It’s never easy to play Sri Lanka.
“Every single win is an incredible achievement and a very good feeling. I’m relieved and very, very happy. In tournaments like these you are always under pressure. You want to do your supporters proud, and you want them to feel they are supporting the right team and for a good reason. I’m very chuffed with the way we performed, it was a big pressure game and we showed everyone we can do it.”
South Africa will head to Auckland tomorrow morning to begin preparations for the semi-final. It will be the fourth time South Africa has reached the last four of the World Cup. The last time was in 2007 in St Lucia, when they were blown away by Australia.