Brits backs belief as Proteas Women eye Australian scalp in World Cup showdown

As the Proteas Women gear up for Saturday’s World Cup showdown against Australia, the team carries a wave of momentum, having won five straight matches on the sport’s biggest stage.

The clash will see the team at the top of the World Cup table take on the second-placed side in what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two women’s cricketing powerhouses.

For Proteas opener Tazmin Brits, who has represented South Africa in two previous T20 World Cup finals, the team’s confidence has never been higher.

“Going to those two finals definitely gave us a bit more experience as a team, but not just that — it’s also the capability of the team. We have a lot more belief in ourselves that we are ranked up there with the world’s best,” Brits said.

Though Brits admits she hasn’t been at her best in this tournament, her spirits remain high, bolstered by strong support systems within the squad and her family.

“In terms of experience, we have a lot of it in the team, although we have a few new ones. At the end of the day, those new ones feed off the experience,” she added.

Facing Australia will be a stern test. The Aussies have displayed elite-level confidence throughout the tournament, posting scores over 300 on two occasions, including a remarkable 331-run chase against India last week. Their consistency, with contributions throughout the batting order, has made them a formidable opponent.

Brits stressed the importance of adapting quickly to subcontinental conditions, a factor that could prove decisive in the match.

“I actually like playing here on the subcontinent. I’ve scored a majority of my centuries here. They want to say slower and lower wickets, but funny enough, I think some of them are definitely batting wickets,” she said.

She also highlighted the role of partnerships in adapting to unfamiliar pitches.

“I try to adjust as quickly as possible and assess with Wolfie [Laura Wolvaardt]. We also watch a few games and see what’s needed on that wicket,” Brits said.

With belief running high and experience on their side, the Proteas Women will be hoping to harness their momentum and rise to the challenge posed by Australia in what promises to be a captivating World Cup encounter.