Trisha Ghosal in Mumbai
South Africa’s women’s team have been knocking on the final door since the last two editions. That door finally opened this year, led by a captain’s knock of 169 from Laura Wolvaardt. With the “chokers” tag hanging over them for years, the Proteas now have a golden chance to rewrite history, much like their men’s team did in the WTC Final earlier this year. On the eve of the grand finale against India, Wolvaardt addressed the media with her trademark calmness and composure.
“Pressure’s on India”
Facing India in Mumbai, in front of what’s expected to be a packed, partisan crowd, Wolvaardt knows what lies ahead. “It’s going to be a very tough game,” she admitted. “With the whole crowd behind India, probably a sold-out stadium, it’s going to be exciting. But at the same time, it puts a lot of pressure on them. They’re expected to win, so hopefully that plays in our favour.”
“Every Game Starts at Zero”
South Africa have beaten India in their last three World Cup meetings, but Wolvaardt brushed off any talk of past advantage. “Every cricket game starts at zero,” she said. “We can’t bring any of our history into this game. Whoever stays calmest under pressure will come out on top.”
Knockouts Bring Out Something Special
Having already defeated India in the group stage, the Proteas skipper was quick to warn that knockouts are a different beast. “People can do very special things in knockout games, like Jemi did the other night. It’s a fresh start for both teams.”
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On the Crowd and Conditions
DY Patil Stadium will be packed with blue jerseys, but Wolvaardt welcomed the challenge. “Hopefully we win, that’s the best way to silence the crowd,” she smiled. “It might be a batting-friendly wicket, so staying calm and grounded will be crucial.”
“A New Champion Is Good for the Game”
With neither Australia nor England in the final, Wolvaardt called it a “great sign for the women’s game.” She added, “It shows how far we’ve all come. The WPL has unearthed new Indian stars, and back home, we’ve also made huge strides.”
“We Want It 5% More”
Reflecting on South Africa’s hunger, Wolvaardt said, “Winning would be massive for women’s cricket in our country. We’ve got a domestic league now, and a World Cup trophy would inspire thousands of girls back home.”
“Stay Calm, Girls”
As for her pre-match message, Wolvaardt kept it simple: “Hilton [Moreeng] does the inspirational bit, I just tell the girls to stay calm. It’s still a game of cricket. The team that holds their nerve longer will win.”
South Africa have waited long enough. Under Laura Wolvaardt’s quiet authority, belief has replaced baggage and in Mumbai’s heat and noise, calm might just be their loudest weapon.
