Fresh off South Africa’s historic World Test Championship final win over Australia, fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has delivered a powerful message: the celebrations are over, and it’s time to focus forward. As the Proteas gear up for a six-match limited-overs tour of Australia, Rabada has urged his teammates to move past the Lord’s glory and channel their energy into the next phase of South African cricket.
Calling the WTC final a “relief” after years of near-misses on the global stage, Rabada acknowledged the significance of the achievement but was quick to stress that living in the past is not an option. “That moment was very special,” he said, “but now, the show moves on. We may never forget it as a team or as a nation—but we have to keep pushing forward.”
Rabada has returned to full training after a short break for rest and recovery, essential after the intensity of the WTC campaign. The veteran pacer noted that a physically demanding schedule lies ahead, and his goal is to stay sharp and durable for what could be a defining stretch of white-ball cricket.
With a packed calendar, including the 2026 T20 World Cup and the 2027 ODI World Cup looming, Rabada emphasized the importance of adaptability and mindset. “There’s no fear now. We’ve proven we can win on the biggest stage. Now it’s about consistency and hunger.”
The upcoming series against Australia marks not only a resumption of one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries but also a vital preparation phase for the team’s next generation of talent. Rabada noted how Australia always brings the best out of the South Africans, highlighting the competitive energy both sides feed off. “They’re in your face. We like that. It sharpens us. It brings fire,” he said.
But this tour is about more than just rivalries. For South Africa, it represents a bridge to a new era. With several senior players easing into the twilight of their careers, the team’s leadership is looking to test fresh faces under pressure. Rabada expressed optimism about the emerging talent in the squad and the importance of grooming them now for bigger tournaments.
“It’s exciting to see the youngsters hungry. You can feel they want to earn their spot. This is how you build a team for the long run,” he added.
As the team touches down in Darwin for the first ODI, the message from Rabada is unmistakable: the WTC win was a statement, but South Africa’s mission is only getting started. With a fearless approach, clear goals, and rising depth in the squad, the Proteas are now setting their sights on conquering the white-ball world.
Kagiso Rabada’s rallying cry captures the moment perfectly — not resting on laurels, but using them as fuel for what’s next. The legacy isn’t complete; it’s only just begun.