Can Rabada Lead the Proteas Beyond WTC Triumph to Major ICC Titles?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kagiso Rabada emphasizes focusing on future ICC titles.
- The 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup and 2027 ODI World Cup are key targets.
- Rabada highlights the importance of the rivalry with Australia.
- He aims to mentor the next generation of fast bowlers.
- The Proteas' upcoming matches against Australia are crucial for preparation.
New Delhi, Aug 8 (NationPress) South African pace leader Kagiso Rabada has called on his teammates to transcend their remarkable victory in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final and redirect their focus toward forthcoming challenges, notably the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Rabada acknowledged the exhilaration of triumphing over Australia at Lord’s in the WTC Final was significant, yet emphasized the necessity for the Proteas to advance and aim for the prestigious ICC titles on the horizon.
“It was somewhat of a relief. However, we must keep moving forward, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching; I believe our strategy will have to adapt. Now we face no fears,” Rabada remarked, as reported by ICC.
South Africa is set to engage in six white-ball matches against Australia, commencing with a three-match T20I series in Darwin this Sunday. Rabada sees this as an ideal chance to prepare for the upcoming global tournaments.
“The rivalry between Australia and South Africa has always been thrilling. The cricket played is intense... Whenever we face Australia, they seem to extract the best from us, as they challenge us relentlessly. And we appreciate that,” Rabada stated.
As a senior member of the Proteas’ bowling unit, Rabada is eager to assist the next generation of talented fast bowlers, such as teenage prodigy Kwena Maphaka, in advancing through the international cricket ranks.
“Absolutely, I aim to support many of the players. From my perspective, I feel a responsibility to mentor them carefully. Yet, I believe he will learn from his own experiences and journey as well. We're here to offer guidance,” he explained.