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Kagiso Rabada played a key role in helping South Africa lift the prestigious Test mace for the first time.
Kagiso Rabada took nine wickets in the ICC WTC final. (AP Photo)
Kagiso Rabada said he is willing to put his body on the line for South Africa after emerging as his team’s hero in their historic triumph in the ICC World Test Championship final at Lord’s. Rabada was spitting venom at Lord’s, delivering memorable spells of 5/51 and 4/59 against Australia to help Proteas overcome the painstaking ICC trophy jinx.
Speaking to reporters in London, Rabada insisted he doesn’t see himself as South Africa’s biggest star but wishes to remain their wholehearted servant on the field.
The ace fast-bowler’s fifer in the first innings ensured Proteas stayed in the contest despite conceding a 74-run deficit. He then delivered the body blows in the second essay to keep the target down to 282, which South Africa eventually overhauled with opener Aiden Markram smashing a memorable century.
“I don’t see myself as a star. I see myself as someone who’s willing to give my blood for this team and continue working hard and improving. That’s me as a cricketer, always wanting to improve and playing for the badge with a lot of pride,” Rabada said.
“I’ve been working extremely hard, and those second-inning spells, those are the ones that count more, when you’re a bit tired. You could be behind the game, or you could be ahead of the game. This time, we’re behind the game. But I think it was just about staying calm and looking at what’s in front of us. That’s the way I see myself,” he added.
With the Australians being the thorn in the flesh for South Africa over the years in ICC events, Rabada was particularly delighted to have overcome the defending champions after they arrived for yet another summit clash as heavy favourites.
“I’ll never forget this in my life. None of the boys will forget this in their lives. Playing against Australia, they’re a well-accustomed team, a bit of an ageing team, with all due respect,” he said.
“Some of those guys were playing when we were still in high school. So this is special, special, special. It hasn’t sunk in yet. I can’t describe,” he added.
A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses, features, live scores, results, stats and everything that’s cricket from all over the globe. Follow @cricketnext
A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses, features, live scores, results, stats and everything that’s cricket from all over the globe. Follow @cricketnext
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