2026 T20 World Cup interview - 10 Questions

Q and A with Kevin Rademeyer of KRMedia on the Proteas’ T20 World Cup chances

As South Africa embark on another T20 World Cup campaign, optimism and caution once again travel side by side. KRMedia founder and cricket analyst Kevin Rademeyer shares his assessment of the Proteas’ prospects, the challenges ahead and why this tournament may still end with silverware heading home.

Q1: Kevin, how do you assess the Proteas heading into this T20 World Cup overall?

They are better placed than many people realise. This squad is more settled, more experienced and mentally tougher than previous editions. The scars from past tournaments are still there, but I think they now serve as motivation rather than baggage.

Q2: Conditions in India and Sri Lanka are expected to favour batters. Does that suit South Africa?

Absolutely. This World Cup is shaping up to be a batter’s tournament. Flat pitches, small boundaries and fast outfields mean teams must embrace fearless cricket. South Africa’s top order is well suited to that environment and they understand that 180 is often par rather than competitive.

Q3: How big is Quinton de Kock’s return for the Proteas?

It is massive. De Kock brings calm at the top and brutal acceleration when required. His recent performances show he is still among the most destructive openers in world cricket. More importantly, he lifts the entire batting group around him.

Q4: What are your thoughts on the Proteas’ batting depth?

The top order of De Kock, Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton is as good as any in the tournament. Dewald Brevis adds unpredictability, while David Miller’s experience in pressure moments is invaluable. They may miss some late order power, but this side is built to score heavily upfront and through the middle overs. I think we may miss Donovan Ferreira and would have loved to see Heinrich Klaasen again. Brevis, Klaasen and Ferreira, would put fear into any attack.

Q5: Bowling has been a talking point. Should South Africans be concerned?

Concerned, yes. Panicked, no. Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Marco Jansen form a world class pace unit. The reality is that bowlers will go for runs in these conditions. The key is execution in critical phases rather than overall economy rates. There is not a smarter, more competitive player than Rabada. He keeps proving people wrong and I think he will again. I would have loved to see more choices in spinners and variations. A mystery spinner could be needed on those pitches.

Q6: Rabada has downplayed warm up results. Do you agree with his view?

I do. Warm up games are about rhythm and adaptation, not tactics. Rabada is right in saying that World Cup matches bring a different intensity and structure. This attack will improve as the tournament progresses. We got the chance to play India in front of a packed crowd, but it was just a warm up. The real stuff is starting soon.

Q7: How important is coach Shukri Conrad to this campaign?

He is central. What he has achieved with the Test side shows his ability to manage pressure and build belief. He is not afraid to back instincts or make bold calls. That unpredictability could be South Africa’s edge in tight matches. He has proved the public wrong, time and time again. I did not agree with the full squad choice however he is in a better position to decide what is needed. He loves to take a chance on people, and knows the importance of big match winners.

Q8: What about the Proteas’ group stage prospects?

They should get through their group. Canada is a must win opener, while New Zealand and Afghanistan will test their adaptability. If South Africa play to their strengths, qualification should not be an issue. Our place in the top two is not assured. New Zealand and Afghanistan are great teams, who have some great spinning options. We will need to win one of those two games.

Q9: Who do you see reaching the semi finals of this World Cup?

For me, the semi final teams will be India, South Africa, New Zealand and England. India have home advantage, England thrive in high scoring tournaments, New Zealand are consistently efficient, and South Africa are primed to finally break through. I think India go into the tournament as favorites. Australia have suffered big injury and leadership setbacks, and it may cost them a spot in the final four.

Q10: Can the Proteas actually bring the trophy home this time?

Yes, they can. This team is not perfect, but no team is in these conditions. South Africa have learned how fine the margins are, especially after falling just short in the last final. If they hold their nerve in the big moments, there is no reason why this World Cup cannot end with the Proteas lifting the trophy and bringing it home. It all comes down to executing in the big moment.