Mlaba: We must stick to our plans
NONKULULEKO Mlaba is acutely aware of the tough task that lies ahead for the South Africans in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
But the spin princess, who contributed beautifully in the Proteas’ win against New Zealand, remains positive that South Africa can pull off a win against Australia in Gqeberha tomorrow.
The team’s World Cup campaign started badly when they lost to Sri Lanka in the tournament opener at Newlands. But Sune Luus’ troops bounced back in style to beat New Zealand by 65 runs in Paarl a few days later. Champions Australia have won their first two games of the tournament and have the momentum on their side heading into the clash at St George’s Park but Mlaba knows that picking up points against them will be key to their chances to qualify for the semis.
“It’s going to be tough because its a must win game for us and we need the points,” said Mlaba yesterday.
Mlaba, the No 2 bowler in the world, has been in red-hot form.
She has managed to carry her excellent rhythm into the World Cup with three wickets in Paarl and won the game for the host nation.
“I’ve been putting in a lot of work on my bowling the last few months. From the last game and also in the tri-series, it shows that I’ve been working hard,” she explained.
“Im excited to have a go here.
We had a camp here in Novemberdecember, I can say this wicket favours spin a lot.”
Mlaba believes a positive result is not impossible against the Aussies if they stick to their plans.
“They are a very good batting team and have a long batting line-up but for me its all about sticking to my bowling plans regardless,” she said. “I was watching their game against Bangladesh. I feel the bowlers were bowling too wide and short to them but whenever they bowled straighter and fuller deliveries it was hard (to score) for them,” she added.
Another mouth-watering encounter between Group 2 favourites England and India will take place at the same venue at 3pm before the Proteas take on Australia (7pm).