Former South African pacer Shaun Pollock refused to label South Africa as the favourites for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, despite the team's remarkable achievement in securing a spot.
Despite South Africa’s successful journey to the WTC final, the 51-year-old acknowledged that the team has often faltered under pressure in major ICC events.
Their most recent setback came in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 final, where they were defeated by India. Pollock recognises the immense challenge ahead for South Africa in overcoming the defending champions.
"I think it's going to be a tough one for South Africa. I don't think we are going in as favourites. Let's be honest. If you look at the way Australia is playing their Test cricket, and you also look at the make-up of the South African side. But the funny thing about Lord's in June is you win the toss and bowl first on the day because you can have a wonderful first innings and put the team under pressure," Pollock said.
"So as I said, I don't think they are going as favourites, but they have shown some unbelievable character to qualify, and you never know. We love cricket because there are no scripts involved. You can't write a script three months proper. You'll have to see how things unfold in the day. They are in the final; they've got an opportunity and let's see how they go," he added.
The right-arm pacer recognises the immense challenge ahead for South Africa in overcoming the defending champions.
While he does not regard South Africa as the frontrunners, he credits the team for their remarkable improvement, which has propelled them to the final.
“The batters have been magnificent in the last few months and scored a lot of hundreds. Despite missing some of the frontline fast bowlers, South Africa has done remarkably well. Some people are saying that we didn’t play against Australia and England, but we were up against India. You can only beat what is in front of you,” he said.
It is pertinent to mention that both South Africa and Australia will face off in the final of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) at Lord’s from June 11-15.
Australia will play in their second consecutive WTC final, having won the previous 2021-23 edition after defeating India by 209 runs.
- Shaun Pollock
