S Africa misplaced however didn’t choke v Australia, says coach Walter

KOLKATA, Nov 16 (Reuters) – South Africa coach Rob Walter is “extremely proud” of the staff’s struggle regardless of their semi-final loss in opposition to Australia on the 50-overs World Cup and doesn’t suppose the “choker” tag applies to them.

South Africa couldn’t progress past the final 4 of the showpiece occasion once more however they performed spectacular cricket to complete the group stage because the second-placed staff.

They comprehensively beat Australia in a gaggle match final month however couldn’t replicate the identical efficiency in Thursday’s semi-final conflict on the Eden Gardens.

They might probably not recuperate from a high order meltdown and managed a below-par whole of 212, which Australia chased down with 16 balls to spare.

Whereas a mixture of unhealthy luck and nerves stymied them in earlier World Cups, South Africa fought tooth and nail this time defending a small whole earlier than Australia eked out a slim three-wicket win.

“It is clearly gutting to lose a semi-final. However past that, (I am) extremely happy with the struggle proven by the lads,” Walter informed reporters.

“I believe 270 was the type of whole that we have been talking about, however even 250 would have proved to be a critical whole there.”

Australia acquired off to a flyer however South Africa stored taking wickets usually to inject contemporary drama into the competition and their lion-hearted bowlers merely refused to throw within the towel.

Walter was happy with the psychological fortitude of his gamers, who’ve been accused of succumbing underneath stress previously.

“I suppose you’ll want to outline what a ‘choke’ is. For me, a choke is shedding a sport that you just’re able to win,” the coach mentioned.

“On this occasion, we have been behind the eight ball proper from the phrase go and we truly fought our manner again into the competitors…

“So for me there’s nothing even remotely near a choke that occurred on the market at this time.”

Strike bowler Kagiso Rabada might bowl solely six overs due to a bruised heel, whereas skipper Temba Bavuma performed regardless of not being absolutely match after a hamstring pressure.

Walter mentioned the Proteas confirmed the fitting intent and he couldn’t complain about their dedication.

“In case you went into the altering room now, it might be fairly quiet,” he mentioned.

“The blokes would clearly be gutted however as I mentioned — what are you able to do however do your finest and depart all the things on the park in your nation?

“And I do not suppose anybody might query that at this time.”

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