Albie Morkel breathes sigh of relief after Super 8s qualification at T20 World Cup

Having started their campaign with a win against Canada, they were given a real scare by Afghanistan with two Super Overs needed to separate them before a comfortable victory against New Zealand in their third match. Their passage was confirmed when the Afghans beat the UAE yesterday, and Morkel was happy to just come out of the group alive.

"I think we were in a very tough group. That game against Afghanistan still gives me nightmares – it could've gone either way. I guess the first box is ticked, getting through to the next stage. For me, the World Cup starts now. Every game wil be a tough game," said Morkel

READ: Marizanne Kapp rested as precaution after taking ill in Proteas Women loss to Pakistan

With their match against the UAE tomorrow now turning into a dead rubber, all eyes will be on Sunday’s big one against co-hosts India – a repeat of the final less than two years ago in Barbados. Morkel knows the enormity of the task they’ll be facing, but says they have big enough players to withstand the pressure.

"I feel we have have an experienced group of bowlers and batters – guys who have been exposed to that whether it's IPL or other leagues. Yes, International cricket is a bit different, but there are guys who can handle that pressure. So I think they will thrive in circumstances where there's bit more pressure on the games. I'm not too worried."

Kagiso Rabada has not had the best of tournaments so far and it was his errors that turned what should have been a routine win against Afghanistan into a heart-in-the-mouth show last week. He also didn’t take any wickets in the next match against the Black Caps, conceding 27 runs in his four overs. Morkel made it clear that they support KG all the way and continue to put their trust in him.