Jansen Assures Confidence in South Africa’s Focus for Semi-Finals
Marco Jansen is optimistic about South Africa’s prospects in knock-out matches following a convincing win over England, securing their Champions Trophy semi-final spot. He emphasizes that the team’s mindset should remain focused despite the heightened pressure of elimination games. South Africa topped Group B, and Jansen is confident in their ability to adapt to conditions against India in the upcoming semi-final.
Marco Jansen has expressed confidence in South Africa’s ability to maintain focus and overcome their historical challenges in knock-out matches, following their impressive victory over England on Saturday that secured them a spot in the Champions Trophy semi-finals. The 24-year-old paceman played a crucial role in this match by claiming three wickets for 39 runs and making three catches, ultimately contributing to England’s dismissal for just 179 runs in 38.2 overs.
In response, South Africa chased down the target with ease, losing only three wickets in 29.1 overs, led by Rassie van der Dussen’s outstanding unbeaten score of 72 and Heinrich Klaasen’s 64. Jansen’s exceptional performance earned him the title of man of the match, and the victory allowed South Africa to top Group B with five points, while Australia followed closely behind with four.
The semi-final match-ups will be determined following the India-New Zealand match in Dubai on Sunday. South Africa’s previous performance in knock-out stages has been criticized, with their last international title won in 1998 during the ICC knock-out tournament. Jansen commented on the team’s need for a consistent approach, stating, “I wouldn’t say the mindset changes; it’s just the occasion that’s probably a bit more hyped up.”
Reflecting on recent tournaments, South Africa faced disappointing exits against Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-finals and India in the previous year’s T20 World Cup final. Jansen emphasized the importance of adhering to their established processes during critical matches: “For me, it’s just you have your steps or your guides that you go into every match and then basically in semi-finals you just try and do that extraordinarily well.”
He further clarified that the team’s mentality remains consistent, although match situations may vary. Jansen highlighted the significance of adapting to different playing conditions while assuring that prior experience in Dubai would benefit South Africa against India. He remarked, “I just think it all comes down to on the day who plays better.”
As the team prepares for the semi-final, they will monitor the health of skipper Temba Bavuma and opener Tony de Zorzi, both of whom missed the game against England due to illness. Additionally, stand-in captain Aiden Markram’s participation is uncertain after he suffered a hamstring injury during the match.
In conclusion, Marco Jansen’s confidence in South Africa’s ability to perform under pressure reflects the team’s determination to overcome past shortcomings in knock-out matches. Their strategic focus on established processes and adaptability to conditions, coupled with strong player performances, positions South Africa as a formidable contender in the upcoming semi-finals. As they assess player fitness, their resilience and experience will be tested once again in the quest for a long-awaited international title.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
