As South Africa prepares to take on Pakistan in the World Cup clash in Sri Lanka, all-rounder Masabata Klaas exudes confidence and focus. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Klaas reflected on the team’s journey so far and shared insights into her role in the bowling attack.
When asked if there has been time for the team to believe they can lift the trophy, she was candid, “We came here with one goal of winning the trophy. So, when it comes to rain and stuff, we have no control over that for us. It might have favored us in the game playing just 20 overs,” Klaas said.
Klaas was also asked about her contribution to the bowling unit and what sets her apart. She replied, “I’m that kind of a bowler, I’m saying I’m an attacking one. I’m that person who, when I focus on one thing, that one thing is where obviously the pressure will come. And I’ll say, I’m special in my own way, because I can bounce, I can nip the ball in and out. So that’s what makes me so special.”
Looking ahead to their match against Pakistan, Klaas emphasized preparation and positivity. “We just gonna keep on doing what’s been working for us and obviously go there with the positive mindset of winning tomorrow’s game. So, like every game is important to us, starting from tomorrow’s game.”
Reflecting on South Africa’s three-match series against Pakistan prior to the World Cup, Klaas highlighted the importance of sticking to basics. “We cannot just go there and think that we just want to walk like in the park, but then one thing that’s going to work for us is to stick to basics and do what we’ve been doing from day one of the World Cup. So, we’re not going to take them for granted. Like I said, every game is important to us.”
Klaas also praised the team’s batting, particularly the openers. “It’s always happy to see our openers come into play. I don’t know if you realised, but we’ve been doing it in the middle as well. But now our openers are coming to play. So, imagine if everyone can just come into play, how dangerous we are going to be.”
With South Africa already securing a semifinal berth, Klaas remained grounded. “It is something that every team wanted. Like I said, every game is important. So, with the final, yes, it’s something that you also wanted, but it doesn’t stop our focus. Now is tomorrow’s game.”
When asked about the possibility of a full 50-over game, she expressed hope: “I’m hoping for a 50-over game tomorrow. It’s gonna be a nice game. Looking forward to that.”
With Klaas leading the bowling attack and the team brimming with confidence, South Africa will look to continue their strong World Cup campaign against Pakistan in Sri Lanka.
Loves all things female cricket