Jansen ‘nervous’ ahead of crunch World Cup battle against India

It’s not the most crucial game in terms of the opening round, but South Africa’s clash with India on Sunday could well be a precursor to the Cricket World Cup final, and all-rounder Marco Jansen admits he is nervous.

India remain top of the table after going unbeaten in the seven matches they have played thus far, with South Africa two points behind them in second position.

The hosts have already qualified for the semi-finals, and the Proteas will secure their spot if they win in Kolkata this weekend. A victory will probably also ensure the SA team avoid India in the semi-finals.

So there’s a lot riding on the result, but Jansen said they were ready to hit their straps at Eden Garden.

“To be honest, I’m nervous, but I think everyone will have a bit of nerves,” said Jansen, who had played a key role throughout the tournament, particularly as a frontline bowler in the absence of injured paceman Anrich Nortje.

‘Just another game’

While he admitted the Proteas were feeling under a bit of pressure ahead of their clash with the hosts, Jansen said they were excited to get going at one of the world’s most famous cricket grounds.

They were nonetheless keeping their feet on the ground in an attempt to ensure they progressed to the knockout stages of the tournament.

“It’s going to be loud and the crowd is going to be buzzing,” Jansen said,

“But we just try and see each game as another game and try go out and do our thing and what we’ve been practicing.”

The match between South Africa and India starts at 10.30am (SA time) on Sunday.