NEW DELHI: In the lead-up to their World Cup semi-final clash against South Africa, Australia's captain, Pat Cummins, highlighted the importance of their extensive experience in cricket's showpiece events, emphasising that their ability to perform under pressure would be a key asset.
Having started the tournament with a slow pace, Australia rallied with seven consecutive wins, showcasing their characteristic resilience in major competitions. Cummins acknowledged the team's knack for rising to the occasion, a trait that has propelled them to five 50-overs World Cup titles, with four coming in the last six editions.
Contrastingly, South Africa has grappled with the tag of World Cup underachievers, having never progressed beyond the semi-finals. Cummins recognized the significance of Australia's players having been in similar high-pressure situations, having won the one-day World Cup, the T20 World Cup, and various other tournaments.
"We feel lucky that we've been in these situations quite a bit, a lot of our players," Cummins remarked, underlining the team's collective experience.
Reflecting on Australia's journey in the current tournament, Cummins expressed satisfaction with the team's progression, especially after a slow start against India and South Africa. He noted the team's improvement in both batting aggression and bowling effectiveness, emphasising that everyone now understands their role, contributing to a more cohesive unit.
The return of fit-again all-rounder Glenn Maxwell adds depth to the Australian lineup, though Cummins kept the suspense regarding the playing XI, particularly the choice between all-rounder Marcus Stoinis and batter Marnus Labuschagne.
When asked about the possibility of turning up the heat on South Africa by reminding them of their World Cup "choker's" tag, Cummins responded with a mischievous smile, "You already have."
As both teams gear up for the semifinal showdown, Australia's wealth of experience and their recent form make them formidable opponents, while South Africa seek to break free from the weight of past expectations and secure a historic berth in the World Cup final.
(With inputs from Reuters)
