Proteas eye strong start as T20 World Cup gets underway

South Africa will be hoping for a strong start as the T20 Men’s World Cup kicks off on Saturday.

Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the games will be played across eight venues until 8 March.

Cricket commentator Jeremy Fredericks explained that politics has marred the event following Pakistan’s decision to boycott their fixture against India due to safety concerns.

A similar issue occurred in 2003 when England and Australia refused to play in Zimbabwe.

He emphasises the importance of cricket being a platform for unity, rather than a tool for bullying or exerting power.

“It is just sad where world cricket has gone at the moment. Politics will always be part of sport.”

The Proteas kick off their campaign against Canada on Monday, 9 February, at 3.30 pm.

In Group D, South Africa will also face New Zealand, Afghanistan and the UAE.

Fredericks said that despite a strong batting lineup, there are concerns about bowling.

“We can chase any score that is set to us, but our bowling needs to tighten up a little bit if we want to win this World Cup.”

To listen to Fredericks in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk’s Africa Melane, use the audio player below: