Ricky Ponting, who has coached several South African players in the Indian Premier League and is known for his success in big games, with three ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup titles for Australia, shared his plan to offer some advice to the Proteas ahead of the one-off final in Barbados on Saturday. He expressed his intention to speak with the team and provide them with simple advice to embrace the moment of playing in a T20 World Cup final.
Ponting emphasized the importance of not underestimating the significance of the occasion. He advised the players to fully embrace the magnitude of the final and not shy away from it, as some teams tend to do. He encouraged the Proteas to enjoy the experience of playing in such a prestigious match and to savor the opportunity they have earned. At the same time, he stressed the need for consistent preparation and maintaining the same level of focus leading up to the final.
Ponting highlighted the fact that many of the South African players have not been in this position before, so it is crucial for them to make the most of the moment and appreciate the opportunity to compete for the T20 World Cup title. By approaching the final with a positive mindset and a sense of excitement, Ponting believed that the Proteas could better prepare themselves for the challenge ahead.