The countdown to the ICC ODI World Cup 2027 has already begun, and South Africa are hoping that home conditions can finally help them break their long-standing jinx in the tournament. With the marquee 50-over event set to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, Proteas fast bowler Kagiso Rabada believes his team can turn home advantage into a source of confidence rather than pressure.
Notably, the 2027 edition will mark the return of the ODI World Cup to South Africa after more than two decades. The country last hosted the tournament in 2003, when Australia defeated India in the final.
Kagiso Rabada shares his take on South Africa’s chances at ODI World Cup 2027
Speaking at the official Cricket World Cup 2027 venue and brand announcement event in Johannesburg, Rabada explained that he does not view hosting the tournament as an added burden. Instead, the experienced pacer sees it as an opportunity for South Africa to protect their home territory and deliver a memorable campaign in front of their supporters.
“It’s almost like freedom as well. I don’t feel the pressure of us playing at home and feeling the need to win it. It’s almost like, we’re at home and we’re going to defend this fortress. And that’s what it means to me. It’s about representing the badge,” Rabada said, as reported by the ICC.
Rabada has been part of South Africa’s ODI World Cup squads in 2019 and 2023, giving him first-hand experience of the demands that come with playing cricket’s biggest 50-over tournament. The fast bowler feels the team already possesses the confidence required to compete deep into the competition. The challenge, according to him, is simply to ensure South Africa take the final step when the opportunity arrives.
“We’ve shown that we can go and play in finals and in the semi-finals. It’s just about that last step. So the confidence is there. The belief is most definitely there, just about going that one extra step,” Rabada added.
Also READ: Zaheer Khan explains why India should pick Mohammed Shami for ODI World Cup 2027
South Africa still chasing elusive World Cup final
Despite being one of the strongest teams in international cricket over the years, South Africa have never managed to reach an ODI World Cup final. Their campaign has repeatedly ended at the semi-final stage, with the Proteas finishing among the last four in 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015 and 2023.
That history has often led to South Africa being associated with disappointment in crucial knockout matches. However, Rabada believes the team’s recent success on the biggest stage has helped change that narrative.
The Proteas won the World Test Championship final against Australia last year, demonstrating their ability to handle the pressure of a high-stakes contest. For Rabada, that triumph has given the current group a stronger belief that they can deliver when the stakes are at their highest.
Also READ: Ajinkya Rahane sends strong message to Team India over Rohit Sharma’s 2027 ODI World Cup future
