Can ICC 2023 World Cup erase South Africa's Chokers tag?

South Africa boast a brilliant record in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023, triumphing in four out of five matches. With dominating victories and consistent high-scoring performances, the Proteas have showcased their mettle, other than a minor setback against the Netherlands.

Despite their recent success, the Aiden Markram-led side didn't emerge as the favourites at the start of the tournament. The South African team has grappled with the notorious label of 'Chokers' due to their historical struggle to perform under pressure in crucial knockout matches. This narrative has persisted for decades, overshadowing the team's capabilities regardless of their prowess.

The origin of the 'Chokers' tag

• The ignominious 'Chokers' tag became synonymous with South Africa after the heartbreaking semi-final against Australia in 1999. Despite the match ending in a tie, Australia secured victory based on the prior results of the Super Six stage, etching a painful memory in South Africa's cricket history.

• Since then, the South African team has often faced misfortune in ICC tournaments, frequently faltering in critical encounters.

• For instance, during the 2015 World Cup, despite fielding exceptional players like AB De Villers, Faf Du Plessis, David Miller, and Hashim Amla, the team faltered in a closely contested semi-final against New Zealand, leading to their elimination.

• A similar narrative played out in the 2022 T20 World Cup, as South Africa's defeat against the Netherlands paved the way for Pakistan's eventual entry into the finals against England.

A shift in fortunes?

However, the narrative might be evolving this time around. Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, the team boasts a formidable batting lineup and a robust bowling unit.

Among the favoured contenders, South Africa, alongside India and New Zealand, stand a good chance of clinching the World Cup title.

What has worked for South Africa this time?

• The strong South African batting lineup, including Quinton de Kock's impressive 174-run innings against Bangladesh, serves as a critical advantage on Indian wickets.

• With solid contributions from Reeza Hendricks, Rassie Van Der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, and Heinrich Klaasen, the team's batting prowess extends up to number 7, rivaling even the potent Indian batting lineup.

• Furthermore, the experience gained from the Indian Premier League has equipped the players with valuable insights into Indian playing conditions.

• In the pace department, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi have excelled, with Rabada securing 10 wickets in five matches and Ngidi claiming 6 wickets in four outings.

Looking ahead

South Africa's next challenge awaits against Pakistan on October 27 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, where they aim to leverage their psychological advantage, having secured 51 victories out of 82 games played against their opponents.