Rob Walter confident in Proteas' World Cup prospects despite series loss to West Indies

South Africa's head coach, Rob Walter, remains confident about the Proteas' prospects in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 despite their recent 3-0 series loss to the West Indies at home. 

Key players such as Kagiso Rabada and Ottniel Baartman were absent due to minor injuries, while Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, and Marco Jansen missed the series due to their commitments in the IPL 2024.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, Walter emphasized the silver lining in the series loss, highlighting the invaluable experience gained by younger players.

“It was a great opportunity for the younger guys that came across to play against some world-class T20 players, which is great,” Walter said.

Acknowledging the less-than-ideal preparation, Walter expressed his belief in the team's potential. 

“Would I like the preparation for a World Cup to look a lot different? Of course, I would, but it is what it is. This is the card that we were dealt with, so we have to be ready. But I absolutely believe we can win the World Cup. We’ve got the players to do that. And as I said, there are other teams that are in a similar position to us. We can’t bemoan our situation. We have to focus on what’s in front of us," he further added.

Walter also addressed the form of fast bowler Anrich Nortje, who participated in the IPL. Despite facing challenging conditions, Walter is confident in Nortje's readiness for the T20 World Cup. 

"They've been tough conditions for a fast bowler and [Nortje was] coming up against a side who were pretty brutal if you were off the mark. He probably experienced the exact same thing having come off a break into his first four games at the IPL. So, he probably landed himself in a perfect storm, which in many ways can harden you and get you even more ready. I still don't believe he's very far away. A world-class performer finds a way and I don't doubt that he will as well," he concluded.