Kagiso Rabada believes the Proteas are prepared to deal with the threat that the West Indies pose, writes DANIEL GALLAN from Southampton.
Kagiso Rabada arrived in the UK as part of a pace bowling triumvirate.
Now, after injuries to Dale Steyn and Lungisani Ngidi, the 24-year-old is ranked the fifth-best bowler in the competition according to the ICC’s rankings must carry the burden alone.
’We have to deal with it and there’s no point complaining about it, ’ Rabada told the media ahead of a must-win World Cup clash against the West Indies in Southampton.
‘Unfortunately, we’ve had quite a few injury problems. We have to work our way around them.’
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Rabada will be a crucial player tomorrow. His battle against a West Indian batting unit that looks to attack from the off could swing the contest.
‘The West Indies are a dangerous team,’ he acknowledged. ‘When they get going they can hurt the opposition. We’ve done our analysis. We’re aware of the threat. But we believe we can beat them.’
Rabada’s spell against India here on Wednesday showed signs of renewed belief. His trademark fire that has seen him become one of the game’s most imminent pace bowlers was on full display. South Africa’s spearhead feels that a game-changing spell is not far away.
‘It’s a cliche but sometimes you bowl rubbish and get a five-for and sometimes you bowl really well and things don’t go your way.’
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Questions were asked about some of the other fast bowlers in the competition who have shone.
England’s Jofra Archer has been devastatingly fast, Australia’s Mitchell Starc has already registered a five-wicket haul and Jasprit Bumrah had South Africa’s openers in knots last week. Does Rabada feel extra pressure to match his rivals?
‘It doesn’t put pressure on me. I can only control what I can control. I enjoy watching others do well – not against us – and it inspires me to perform better. But no, I don’t feel pressure.’
Rabada also spoke about how, despite results on the field and distractions off it, he is enjoying his experience of representing his country in a World Cup.
He also had some encouraging words for his new teammate Beuran Hendricks who replaced Steyn last week.
‘I really rate him. He’s got good skills. Being a lefty he adds variety. I am confident having him in the team.’
– Daniel Gallan is a freelance sports writer, follow him on Twitter: @danielgallan
