Ahmedabad: South Africa opener Quinton de Kock says mental toughness will be the decisive factor when his side meets India in a blockbuster Super Eights encounter at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Sunday.
Both teams arrive unbeaten, having swept their group matches, and the contest renews a fierce rivalry that last met on the biggest stage two years ago in the tournament final. With familiarity on both sides, De Kock believes the margins will be slim.
Familiar Rivals, Fine Margins
South Africa toured India late last year and lost a T20 series 3–1 under captain Aiden Markram. De Kock said those recent contests add edge to Sunday’s game.
“We’ve played each other a lot recently,” he said. “The teams are very similar. It will come down to who handles pressure better and wins the small moments.”
India’s Batting Under the Lens
India’s results have been strong, but questions remain around consistency at the top. Opener Abhishek Sharma has endured a lean patch, registering three ducks in a row.
De Kock urged patience, noting Abhishek’s standing at the top of the T20 rankings. “He’s young, and setbacks are part of the journey,” he said. “At some point, he’ll play a decisive innings.”
Captain’s Backing Clear
Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav echoed that view, stressing trust in attacking players.
“When he fires, everyone sees the impact,” Suryakumar said. “We back him to play his natural game.”
While pre-tournament expectations pointed to huge totals on home soil, the competition has been more balanced, with scores above 250 proving elusive.
Smart Batting Over Blind Aggression
Suryakumar said India aim to blend intent with awareness. “If early wickets fall, we need to manage the middle overs well,” he explained. “With a solid base, we can accelerate late.”
Spin Could Shape the Result
India’s spinners, led by Varun Chakravarthy, have delivered consistently, while South Africa’s attack featuring Keshav Maharaj has also impressed.
Suryakumar dismissed the idea of favourites. “It’s a fresh game,” he said. “Execution on the day will decide it.”
With a semifinal place on the line, composure under pressure may prove the difference in a contest set to turn on fine margins.
