South Africa's Coach Encourages Team to Embrace ICC World Test Championship Final

South Africa Prepares for ICC World Test Championship Final

London [UK], June 10: As the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia approaches, South Africa's head coach Shukri Conrad has advised his players to embrace the moment rather than feel overwhelmed. He dismissed concerns regarding the 'chokers' label that has haunted the Proteas due to their history of underperformance in crucial matches, stating, 'We do not fear any tags that come our way.'

The match will take place at Lord's, the same venue where South Africa last claimed the ICC Test Championship mace 13 years ago.

While Conrad acknowledged the significance of this history, he emphasized that his focus is on the current team. 'Most of these players weren't even born in 1998. My goal is to build this group without being burdened by the past. We aim to win another ICC event, and this is our chance to set the record straight and secure that first title,' he remarked.

For many players in the squad, this will be their inaugural experience at Lord's, and Conrad is keen to ensure they do not feel intimidated by the occasion. 'It's challenging to shake off the atmosphere here. We have chosen to embrace everything that comes with it. This is a monumental occasion, and we cannot ignore it,' he stated when discussing the importance of playing at such a historic venue.

'We had discussions about fully experiencing this moment and not wishing it away. Nerves are natural, and excitement is building, so we must embrace this opportunity. I would prefer to be part of it than to miss out,' he concluded.