South Africa and Delhi Capitals (DC) speedster, Kagiso Rabada, spoke of the influence of his country's great anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela on him and how the teachings from the man's life have shaped him into the sporting giant he is today. 

Taking inspiration from Mandela, Rabada said he believes in fighting for the right causes and knows the importance of freedom, the liberation of mind. 

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“Nelson Mandela played a huge role in the world and particularly in South Africa. Fighting for basic need that is freedom and it is important that nobody feels inferior. It’s important," said Rabada during a virtual press conference, as quoted by PTI. 

"Liberation of mind is the most important thing and that’s the message you want to spread as a sportsman as you do have a platform."

At the peak of his prowess as a cricketer, Rabada has been key to DC's successful campaign in IPL 2020 so far, taking 21 wickets while going at an economy rate of 7.58. 

Further invoking Mandela, the 25-year-old said: "A lot of people look up to us as sportsman but if I compare myself with an everyday person, I am probably the same."

“Cricket gives me a platform and also social responsibility and a reminder that I need to fight for the right causes. But I will never shove my opinion or ideas down anyone’s throat."

"I will express my opinion as I am doing on this stage and on a political front, liberation is important. Human rights being treated with dignity is important," he added. 

With players like Rabada shining, DC stand at the top of the points table with seven wins in ten matches. The team next lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (October 24).