Pollock reluctant to place South Africa as WTC final favorites
Former South African pacer Shaun Pollock declined to regard South Africa as the favorites for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.
Despite their impressive qualification, Pollock pointed out the team’s history of faltering under pressure in major ICC tournaments.
South Africa’s recent disappointment came in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 final, where they lost to India. Pollock acknowledges the challenge of facing defending champions Australia but remains optimistic about South Africa’s potential to surprise.
“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 former pacer highlighted South Africa’s improvements, particularly in batting, with several players scoring centuries in recent matches. He also commended the team’s resilience despite missing key fast bowlers. Addressing criticism about their opponents, Pollock said, “You can only beat what’s in front of you, and we were up against India.”
The WTC final between South Africa and Australia will take place at Lord’s from June 11-15. This marks Australia’s second consecutive WTC final after winning the previous edition by defeating India. South Africa will aim to overcome history and claim their first WTC title.
