Du Plessis feels Indians might face some challenges in South Africa because of their World Cup final loss.
Former South African captain Faf du Plessis believes that Indian cricketers are still feeling the impact of their loss in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final against Australia.
The RCB captain compared Team India’s 6-wicket loss to Australia in the final of the ODI World Cup 2023 to a heartbreak, akin to a breakup with a girlfriend. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team did really well in the tournament, winning ten matches in a row, but failed to cross the final hurdle to lift the World Cup trophy after more than 12 years.
After the loss, many players were given rest for the T20I series against Australia, but they'll be back in action for the upcoming tour of South Africa. Du Plessis believes that the Indian team might face some challenges in the T20I series in South Africa because of their World Cup final loss to Australia.
Faf du Plessis was quoted as saying by NDTV: “That is a big challenge. I remember going through a similar experience as a cricketer when we went through the highs and lows of the 2015 World Cup. The heartache that you have to deal with takes a bit of time and it is a bit like breaking up with a girlfriend. You cannot just get over it straight away.”
He continued, “India were so amazing in the way they played in this World Cup. They were unbelievable the way they went about their business. They will be feeling in a similar way and they will be heartbroken. That was their World Cup to win. That will take a bit of time and time heals everything.”
Du Plessis signed off by saying, “Your first series back feels like you are in the middle of nowhere. Obviously there are so quality players there and some experience players who I am sure will help manage the young guys well.”
Notably, Du Plessis recently hinted at his return to international cricket and the process for the same, as he is likely to sport national colors at the 2024 T20 World Cup.
(With NDTV Inputs)