‘It will be fun to see Aussies get knocked out!’ – Fans react after Mitchell Starc jokes about South Africa’s history in World Cup semi-finals

The stage is set for a high-octane clash in the ODI World Cup 2023 as Australia prepares to take on South Africa in Semi-Final 2. While the Proteas finished second on the points table, the Australians secured the third spot. The tournament has witnessed both teams performing admirably, but the Proteas, in particular, have exceeded expectations. The spotlight intensified when Australian pacer Mitchell Starc made a bold remark about South Africa’s historical performance in the World Cup semifinals, sparking a war of words among fans ahead of the crucial match.

Mitchell Starc, known for his fiery deliveries on the field, didn’t hold back when questioned about whether Australia would remind South Africa of their semifinal struggles. Starc responded confidently, saying, “Do they need reminding? They probably know it in their heads.” This remark has added fuel to the already intense rivalry and sets the stage for an emotionally charged encounter.

South Africa’s Semifinal History:

In the illustrious history of the ODI World Cup, South Africa has consistently entered the tournament as a formidable contender. However, their journey has been marred by the inability to progress beyond the semifinal stage, earning them the unfortunate label of ‘chokers.’ Let’s delve into South Africa’s semifinal performances over the years:

1992: In their World Cup debut, South Africa faced England in the semifinal. A rain-interrupted match saw them needing 21 runs off one ball after the last delay, ultimately losing by 19 runs.

1999: In a heartbreaking semifinal against Australia, the Proteas tied the match but were eliminated due to a lower net run rate in the group stage.

2007: Australia ended South Africa’s campaign in the semifinal by bowling them out for 149 and chasing the target with ease.

2015: Despite beating Sri Lanka in the quarterfinals, South Africa suffered a narrow defeat to New Zealand in the semifinal, with Grant Elliot playing a memorable unbeaten innings.

2023: In the current edition, South Africa’s competent group-stage performance secured their spot in the semis. However, questions linger about whether they can overcome the ‘chokers’ tag and clinch an unprecedented semifinal victory.

Starc’s remarks have added spice to an already intense rivalry between the two cricketing nations. The war of words has ignited passion among fans, creating anticipation for a thrilling encounter. As the teams gear up for Semi-Final 2, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting a clash that promises to be a spectacle of skill, determination, and the unrelenting pursuit of glory.

The Australia vs. South Africa semifinal promises to be a historic battle, with the Proteas aiming to break free from the shackles of their semifinal curse. Mitchell Starc’s remarks have injected additional drama into the narrative, setting the stage for a memorable showdown. As the cricketing world holds its breath, all eyes will be on whether South Africa can rewrite their World Cup history or if Australia will reinforce the narrative of their semifinal prowess. The clash is not just a game; it’s a culmination of dreams, ambitions, and the relentless pursuit of cricketing glory on the world stage.

See how fans have reacted:

Australia is not ready for Temba Bavuma storm pic.twitter.com/0eElIio8lW

— Kirkett (@bhaskar_sanu08) November 14, 2023

Mitchell Starc bowling Yorkers in press only

— Satya Prakash (@Satya_Prakash08) November 14, 2023

https://twitter.com/iTHAKURSAHEB/status/1724432265164333353?s=20

pic.twitter.com/WhZCRVajfX

— A K $ H A Y  (@Akshay_Patil_07) November 14, 2023

Aussies are at the phase where they start playing mind games. This was very common when ponting was captain.

— Digant (@keepitsimple176) November 14, 2023

I hope South Africa won't choke this time

— Renu (@Talk2Rinki) November 14, 2023

https://twitter.com/SaranKL_/status/1724430145526603855?s=20

South Africa wining this time surely semifinals

— Hemaram Saran (@saran_hemaram) November 14, 2023