NEW DELHI: After South Africa's heart-wrenching three-wicket loss to Australia in the World Cup semifinal, coach Rob Walter has openly shared his reluctance to watch the final. Despite his disappointment, Walter believes it would be "fitting" for India, whom he regards as the tournament's "best" team, to secure victory in Sunday's final.
Walter candidly stated, "To be honest, there's a one percent chance I'll be watching (the final). And to be even more brutally honest, I actually don't care."
While expressing his disinterest in the final, Walter acknowledged the unique appeal of India clinching the World Cup on their home turf, saying, "Because of the World Cup being in India, it's always great for the home nation to win the World Cup."
Despite having friends in the Australian change room, Walter admitted to having a soft spot for certain players. He recognized India's exceptional performance throughout the competition, noting, "And in the same breath, they have been the best side in the competition, and they've played the best cricket."
Addressing the controversial inclusion of out-of-form skipper Temba Bavuma, who played the semifinal despite not being 100 percent fit, Walter voiced his support. He praised Bavuma's leadership on the field, emphasising his strategic efforts to defend the score.
"He was the lead man that got us into this tournament in the first place. I think people forget that, so I just wanted to make sure that he was aware of how important he is in this team and how proud I am of his efforts and the way he led throughout the tournament," Walter concluded.
(With inputs from PTI)
