How Does Rabada Plan to Tackle Aussie Batsmen in the WTC Final?

London, June 11 (NationPress) South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada shared his thoughts on his approach and tactics against the Australian batsmen during the World Test Championship final at Lord's this Wednesday. He emphasized the importance of execution and maintaining simplicity rather than overcomplicating strategies, stating that the team has tailored plans for each Australian batter.

Currently ranked second in the ICC Test bowling standings, trailing only India’s Jasprit Bumrah, Rabada previously etched his name on the Lord’s honour board during South Africa's last Test at this iconic venue, where they triumphed over England by an innings and 12 runs in August 2022. He delivered an impressive first innings performance, claiming 5 wickets for 52 runs over 19 overs.

“With every batsman you face, your goal is to dismiss them. I’ve had a good run so far. We have specific strategies for each of their batsmen, but at the end of the day, it’s about keeping things straightforward—that’s the essence of the game,” Rabada conveyed during an interview with Star Sports.

Temba Bavuma's South African team is eager to secure their first ICC trophy in more than twenty years, while Pat Cummins-led Australia aims to defend the mace they acquired after their 2023 victory over India.

Expressing his enthusiasm ahead of the ICC WTC final, Rabada remarked, “It’s a fantastic setting, particularly at Lord's—a remarkable venue. We’re facing a formidable opponent, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. It’ll be a special occasion, especially with this South African squad. Although it’s a relatively inexperienced team, we’ve exceeded expectations.”

“We possess a lot of belief. There’s a persistent sense of responsibility. From the moment I began representing South Africa, I felt that duty—to contribute to the team’s success,” he added.

Rabada also acknowledged the challenge of adapting to the unfamiliar English conditions with the Duke ball, pointing out that Australia holds a slight advantage in experience. “The conditions are different—we’re using the Duke ball at Lord's, and these aren’t home conditions for either team. However, they do have a bit more experience in these circumstances than we do,” he stated.

The 30-year-old fast bowler concluded by underscoring the unpredictability of a neutral venue, stressing the necessity of dismissing key players early in such conditions. “It’s a completely neutral ground, making it hard to forecast what will happen. Yet, when going up against the best players in these conditions, getting them out is a top priority.”