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South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has reflected on his poor performance in the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. The Proteas suffered a heartbreaking exit in the Group Stage as they were defeated by the Netherlands in the final Group B match. In five matches, the 27-year-old managed only two wickets at an average of 75.50 and an economy rate of 9.44.
While talking to Cricinfo, Rabada expressed that he doesn't want to make any excuses and is extremely disappointed by his performance. He then talked about how the harder he tried, the more he struggled to bowl.
Rabada said, "I am not one to make any excuses. I wasn't up to scratch, I had a disappointing tournament. I didn't feel that great in terms of energy. I still tried my best but I felt like the harder I tried, it just wasn't coming out. You can feel it in the intensity of your play. Your intensity is not where you want it to be, and it catches up with you over time."
Later in the interview, Rabada spoke about how playing against Australia often brings the best out of him. He then talked about the conditions assisting him in Australia and hoping for some exciting cricket over the next few weeks. He said, "When you are playing a quality opposition, it can get the best out of you. It's about letting it happen. With me, it's always come out against Australia. It's about not backing down to a challenge. If they want to come hard, you stand up to it.
"That's what competition is. In Australia, you get some bounce. The bounce and the pace is your ally. But at the same time, they are good wickets to bat on because the bounce is so true. I am excited to play some cricket, and to test myself," Rabada further added.
Australia and South Africa will kick off their series with the first Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, starting on December 17. Prior to that. the Proteas will face Cricket Australia XI in a four-day practice game from December 9-12.