New Delhi, Nov 1 (NationPress) Former South Africa cricketer Paul Adams asserts that the Proteas' challenging past of near victories in global tournaments will energize their ambition for success as they face hosts India in the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup final at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday.

A new champion will be inscribed on the trophy this Sunday – whether it’s India or South Africa, it will be a monumental event in the realm of women’s cricket. South Africa has been a runner-up in the 2023 and 2024 Women’s T20 World Cups, and clinching the title on Sunday would mark their second championship after Temba Bavuma & Co secured the ICC World Test Championship at Lord’s in June.

“For South Africa, this is huge, especially after defeating England in the semi-final, particularly given their initial loss in the opening match where they were convincingly beaten. South Africa has really turned their campaign around with standout performances from veteran players,” Adams reflected.

“Throughout the round-robin stages, players like Nadine de Klerk have been crucial to their success. Currently, Laura Wolvaardt is excelling, and Marizanne Kapp is performing exceptionally well, having taken five wickets in the semi-final. Kapp has been among the best for years and is eager for this elusive World Cup victory.”

“She’s going to give her all. I was fortunate to be part of the T20 World Cup final last year, and you could feel the emotions from our loss, the pain and the heartache. I believe they will recall all those frustrating moments to ignite their passion and truly give it their all,” Adams shared with IANS in an exclusive interview ahead of the crucial match.

Adams, who served as the spin bowling coach during South Africa's runner-up finish at the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in Dubai, elaborated on how the team can harness the strength from past disappointments to claim the trophy.

“It's crucial for them to learn from those experiences. They gain valuable lessons on managing pressure and how to respond effectively. Understanding how they reacted previously and improving is vital,” he emphasized.

“Leveraging the experience from those past moments is essential in this tournament. South Africa has previously faced India in the round-robin stage and achieved success. There’s significant positivity, and doubts will be minimal.”

“They have shown they believe in themselves and can defeat a powerhouse like India. They have consistently performed in World Cups, and perhaps their time is now. Sometimes, it just takes that pivotal moment to change everything,” he stated.

South Africa enters the final following a convincing 125-run victory over England in the semi-final, while India has a shorter recovery after an exhilarating win over Australia. Adams stressed the importance of managing emotions and ensuring adequate rest for the Proteas ahead of the high-stakes final.

“We’ve had an additional day of rest compared to India, which is crucial. The way they recuperate, recharge, and prepare for this emotionally charged game is vital. There will be a lot of emotions involved. Some team families are arriving to support them, and messages from South Africa will flood into the squad,” he mentioned.

“The team will be actively engaged on social media, receiving messages of encouragement. They need to embrace and enjoy these moments, understanding what they are playing for. In tough moments, they should remember that everyone is supporting them, providing the push needed to succeed,” he added.

South Africa will face the challenge of competing not only against a sold-out crowd supporting India but also adapting to the conditions in Navi Mumbai, where they have yet to play during this World Cup.

Conversely, India will be playing their fourth consecutive game there, remaining undefeated in that venue. Regarding the daunting prospect of facing a packed crowd at DY Patil Stadium, Adams advised the team to embrace the atmosphere instead of fearing it.

“Yes, the Indian crowd will act as a 12th man for India, which undoubtedly influences the game. The noise and energy surrounding the match can be overwhelming. I always recommend embracing it. Enjoy these moments; this is why we compete on the international stage,” he counseled.

“It’s crucial not to fear or doubt oneself. They should go out, have faith in their abilities, and be ready for a World Cup final. It’s significant for both South African and Indian cricket. But does the host nation face more pressure than South Africa? That’s a pertinent question.”

“Certainly, it’s a different level for India. Few host nations have successfully won World Cups due to the immense pressure. Every moment they walk down the street, the expectations are palpable. Observing past host nations can teach valuable lessons about managing these moments. When playing in your home country, emotions often run high, so controlling those feelings is essential,” he concluded.

He wrapped up by discussing the significance of a World Cup victory for women’s cricket in South Africa and its implications for the global scene. “Our women’s team is revered as heroes in South Africa, admired greatly. Their performances on the world stage demonstrate that with belief, passion, and dedication, anything is achievable. They inspire many,” he noted.

“This inspiration isn’t confined to South Africa; this team motivates countless individuals worldwide with their approach to the game. Frequently seen as underdogs, they’ve reached the final stages of World Cups, and everyone is rooting for them to succeed.”

“There are players who have emerged from challenging backgrounds, proving that greatness is attainable. They will motivate another generation of players to rise. It’s vital we support them, win or lose. They’ve already achieved so much in our eyes.”

“Women’s cricket is destined to continue growing. The crowning of a new world champion on Sunday symbolizes the sport’s evolution, showcasing that it’s not limited to specific regions. We can observe this growth in women’s cricket as various leagues emerge globally.”

“The increasing interest in women’s cricket is remarkable. It indicates the potential for an exciting brand, creating heroes and players who can dominate worldwide. I am genuinely excited about this match on Sunday. It’s a monumental occasion for world cricket and the women’s game,” he concluded.