Wolvaardt: Knockout games different from league, South Africa to start afresh against India

NAVI MUMBAI, Nov 2: South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt said her team will approach the ICC Women’s World Cup final against India with a clean slate, stressing that knockout matches bring a completely different pressure and mindset compared to league games.

Speaking on the eve of the title clash at DY Patil Stadium, Wolvaardt noted that despite their recent success over India, including a narrow three-wicket win in the group stage at Visakhapatnam, the Proteas are not taking anything for granted.

“Knockout games are a whole different ball game. You can’t rely on what happened in the league stage. We’ll start afresh against India,” Wolvaardt said.

The Proteas skipper, who has been in sublime form as the tournament’s leading run-scorer with 470 runs, said her team respects India’s depth and resilience, especially after their thrilling semifinal win over defending champions Australia.

“Jemimah’s innings against Australia was incredible. To chase down that total under pressure shows how dangerous India can be on the big stage,” she added.

India, playing their third ODI World Cup final, are eyeing their maiden title, while South Africa are hoping to lift their first-ever ICC trophy in women’s cricket.

The final promises to be a battle of temperament and talent, as both sides chase history in Navi Mumbai on Sunday.