Rob Walter, reflecting on South Africa's narrow loss to India in the T20 World Cup final, expressed pride in his team despite the disappointment. Speaking upon his return to South Africa, Walter acknowledged the pain of losing such a closely contested match, especially when margins are slim. He credited Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional bowling in the final overs, which played a crucial role in India's victory.
Walter, who has been with the Proteas for about 17 months, highlighted the progress the team has made during his tenure. He emphasised the difference between coaching in domestic and international cricket, noting the challenges and rewards of working closely with the team in person. He praised the team's ability to win crucial moments in the tournament, showcasing resilience and skill in diverse conditions.
Enoch Nkwe, CSA's director of Cricket, also lauded both the men's and women's teams for their achievements. He highlighted the mindset shift within South African cricket, noting the significance of both teams reaching finals in a short span. Looking forward, Nkwe emphasised ongoing improvements in preparation for future World Cups, with a focus on building belief and achieving greater success in international cricket.
Overall, despite the heartbreak of falling short in the T20 World Cup final, South African cricket remains optimistic about the future, buoyed by recent achievements and a commitment to continuous improvement.