(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Kagiso Rabada: Time to Move Forward After Historic WTC Triumph
Darwin, August 7, 2025 –
South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada says it’s time for his team to shift focus from their World Test Championship (WTC) triumph and prepare for new challenges, as they gear up to face Australia in a white-ball series starting this Sunday.
Rabada, who played a pivotal role in South Africa’s five-wicket victory over Australia in the WTC final at Lord’s in June, acknowledged that while the achievement was special, the team is now ready to move forward.
“The Show Moves On,” Says Rabada
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Rabada said,
“It was a special moment and I’ve spoken about it a lot, but it’s time to move on now. It’s something we’ll never forget as a team—or as a country—but we’re focused on what’s next.”
The historic win ended a long wait for a major ICC trophy, bringing relief to a nation that has seen multiple near misses in previous World Cups. Rabada admitted that lifting the trophy brought a sense of closure.
“It felt like a relief. But now, with the T20 World Cup ahead, we’re approaching things differently. There’s no fear now—just excitement.”
Upcoming Tour of Australia
South Africa’s tour of Australia includes three T20Is and three ODIs, with the first T20 match set to take place in Darwin on Sunday. Rabada, turning 30 this year, will lead the pace attack after taking a much-needed break since the WTC final.
“It’s been great to have some rest,” he said. “But maintenance work never stops because of how demanding the cricket calendar is.”
A Fierce Rivalry Rekindled
Rabada is looking forward to facing Australia again, a team he believes brings out the best in South Africa.
“It’s always competitive, hard cricket. When we play against Australia, they’re always in our faces—and I think we enjoy that challenge.”
Eyes on the Future
With the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka and the 2027 ODI World Cup in Southern Africa on the horizon, Rabada sees the current tour as a valuable experience, especially for the younger players.
“It’s exciting to see the young guys eager to perform. We’re transitioning into a new phase, and this series is a great opportunity to see where we stand as a team.”
What’s Next?
With renewed confidence and a mix of experienced leaders and emerging talent, South Africa’s cricket team looks set to build on their WTC success and aim for continued progress in the global arena.
Stay tuned as South Africa takes on Australia in what promises to be another thrilling chapter in their cricketing rivalry.
