Faf du Plessis says he backs his side’s ability to step up in the series deciders as the Proteas aim for a 3-2 series win against Pakistan, writes KHALID MOHIDIN from Newlands.
The Proteas take on Pakistan in the fifth and final ODI at Newlands and it could not be set up any better. The series is level at 2-2, and both sides have shown tremendous fight to get the edge over the opposition.
Du Plessis believes that based on his side’s record in series deciders over the last two years, they have what it takes to end the fifth ODI on top.
The Proteas skipper revealed the importance of the clash at Newlands and what the Proteas aim to get out of the contest.
‘It’s about how we play big games better, and that’s by not making it bigger than it already is. Obviously, it’s a big game, but when we do make it a big thing we don’t bring out the best out of ourselves as a team,’ said Du Plessis on Tuesday.
‘So for me, it’s about freeing up the guys so they can express themselves in whichever way they want to, and not to see it as a huge game where they have to play differently.
‘In saying that, in the last two years, we’ve played very well in these scenarios. Every time there was a series decider we as a team have stepped up.
‘So at least we are moving forward in that direction, we are winning those games which is a huge plus-point for me. Hopefully, we can do the same against a very strong team tomorrow.’
The Proteas take on Pakistan at Newlands in the fifth ODI at 1pm.
