Proteas coach remembers 1999 World Cup heartbreak

Needing just one run to win with one wicket to spare, the country watched in horror as Allan Donald and Lance Klusener botched it and the match was tied, with the Aussies going through with a higher placing in the Super Six stage. 

Conrad says while the trauma from 27 years ago might give them anxiety still, he’s hopeful that they’ll finally get the job done on home soil next year.

"1999 is the one that sticks with you. I can still see Allan Donald trying to get back, but it was traumatic and I know the saying goes 'its the hope that kills us' but for me its the hope that excites me."

READ: Joe Root set to return for season 5 of SA20, Mitch Marsh set for tournament debut

Conrad says while the current squad might not have the big names in Proteas teams of yesteryears, they have the heart and determination that sets them apart from the rest. 

South Africa have failed in all their attempts to win the Cricket World Cup, a monkey they hope to get off their backs by the time the tournament is over in November 2027.

"We might not have the names in years gone by, but the one thing that we have is a group of guys who pull together. We've realised what we lack in experience we make  it up with a strong bond and a desire to play as a unit."

The World Test Championship triumph last year gave the team renewed hope that they can finally go where no other South African team has gone. Conrad says they will take every lesson and apply it in their quest to conquer the 50 over format.