‘Proteas T20 run similar to Springboks last World Cup win’ – Gibbs

‘Proteas T20 run similar to Springboks last World Cup win’ – Gibbs

Proteas legend Herschelle Gibbs has urged the current team to enjoy the moment of playing in a T20 World Cup final.

The Proteas reached their first-ever ICC Cricket World Cup final after easing past Afghanistan by nine wickets on Wednesday. The team will now face India in the final on Saturday afternoon.

Gibbs, who played for the Proteas in all three formats, said India were favourites to claim the final. Speaking to Primedia Plus, the former opener pointed out the South African cricket team’s WC run to that of the Springboks in 2023.

“There’s a lot of excitement more than nerves. There’s a nervous excitement but this one is a bit more stressful,” he said.

“The way the tournament has gone, close encounters, very similar to the Springboks’ last World Cup win. There’s been close encounters but the guys have found ways to win and kept their composure when it matters most.”

Gibbs shares his thoughts on Proteas World Cup chances

The 50-year-old former cricketer expects a high-scoring final.

“The wickets have been challenging and the scores show it… but they just need to face one more… I think I’m expecting a much easier wicket for the batters in Barbados. At least a 180 plus score, the guys will have it a little much easier as far as the batter as concerned,” Gibbs added.

Hershelle Gibbs has played in several T20 World Cups and also 50-over World Cups but never reached a final with the Proteas. He said the final was there to be enjoyed and urged the players to enjoy the moment.

“It’s been such a topsy-turvy World Cup, we don’t know what to expect… India is an overwhelming favourite but they can go out there and enjoy their moment. No other Proteas men’s team has been in a final before so big games like semi and finals are there to be enjoyed,” Gibbs said.