The 2023 World Cup is here. India will host the tournament that will take place from 5 October – 19 November.

South Africa come into the tournament as underdogs, with expectations relatively low amongst some cricket lovers in the fanbase.

I wouldn’t blame fans for lacking belief, particularly because of the Proteas’ record in ICC events which has been dominated by consistent heartbreak. The low expectations could be a blessing in disguise for the team. They can go into the tournament with nothing to lose.

Their previous World Cup campaign in 2019 was a disastrous one, they exited in the group stages and failed to impress in all departments. Their tournament ended before it even started with three losses on the bounce.

The first aim should be to improve on this result for a start and continue to build on that momentum to have a better campaign than the last.

Indian conditions won’t make this easy. But the Proteas should have enough in their arsenal to adapt to the different conditions that will be on offer. We have compiled articles in this edition to give fans a better understanding of what the various venues will dish up.

Having watched the Proteas closely leading up to this World Cup, the key to having a respectable campaign will be their energy levels, intensity and togetherness as a unit. If the team can cohesively fight for each other in every game, they will be able to beat any team on the day. This, however, won’t be easy if they don’t get off to a good start.

Maximum effort in every match will be appreciated by the South African cricket public. Fans want to see the Proteas leave everything out in the middle. It will be essential to a successful campaign. 

In this issue, we will provide you with content that gives you a deeper understanding of what lies ahead for the Proteas’ 2023 World Cup Campaign. What some of the players think, how coaches have prepared and what fans expect from the men in Green and Gold. 

So sit back, grab a beverage and a snack, and enjoy issue 35 of Cricket Fanatics Magazine.