Imran Tahir has come down heavily on South Africa’s top batsmen for their immature performance in the Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-final loss to Australia. Despite a spirited fight by the bowlers, South Africa lost by three three-ball wickets and Australia were able to progress to the final to meet India in the final.

During a discussion on the Star Sports program, Tahir was asked to share his thoughts on South Africa’s first half collapse. His answer was unreserved:

“They played like children. It was a very disappointing start. The batsmen should have taken responsibility but they didn’t. When the ball swings and seams, you need to adjust your game to the situation.”

Tahir also questioned South Africa captain Tamba Bavuma’s decision to stick with the game despite his poor health. He commented:

“Quinton de Kock and Bavuma should have been in the game for a long time. He (Bavuma) himself admitted before the match that he was not fit. This is not ideal for the South African team because you should play fit players.

Bavuma’s performance at the 2023 World Cup was far from ideal as he scored just 145 runs in eight innings. To make matters worse, the South African captain suffered a hamstring injury before the semi-final. Despite not having fully recovered, he opted to play and was consequently knocked out of the tournament by a duck in the first innings.

“Show the brand of cricket you played throughout the World Cup” – Imran Tahir on South Africa’s meekness

Tahir expressed his displeasure at the South African team’s deviation from its usual style of play. He explained.

“I was particularly disappointed with the batsmen’s batting choices. Yes, they may have been intimidated by Australia’s winning record and confidence levels, but they should have stuck to the style of cricket that has served them so well throughout the World Cup.

The cricketer-turned-commentator was of the opinion that South Africa’s batsmen should take inspiration from the Indian team. He said.

“They should show the courage to change the situation, as India often do. First of all, it was a mistake to bunt against the batsmen and then the way they batted was simply unacceptable.”

Tahir also expressed concern over the lack of planning by the South African coaching staff. He also said that the body language of the South African players was poor, which is unusual for a team that has reached the final round of the World Cup for the first time.