South African batsman Rilee Rossouw believes that competing in the IPL has helped him move past the heartbreaking semifinal loss in the recent ODI World Cup. The Proteas, perennial favourites, were edged out by New Zealand in a thrilling match that went the distance.
Rossouw, who has not figured in the playing XI for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in either of its two matches thus far, said: “The sooner we play cricket, the better. But, to be honest, most of the South African players left the loss behind on the night of the match.
“New Zealand just played a better brand of cricket. Unfortunately, we were at the wrong end of it. That is in the past, and we can’t keep looking back.
“Playing in the IPL definitely helps in getting over what happened. The IPL is an energetic event. There are a lot of things happening off the field as well, so this is definitely a great way to get your mind off the World Cup.”
The 25-year-old, who made 39 in the semifinal before a spectacular catch by Martin Guptill brought his end, added: “It was my first World Cup, so it was easier to deal with the defeat. I was, however, gutted for the seniors. Everyone in the side — and the entire nation — truly believed that this year was our year to win the trophy. But, cricket isn’t everything. You have your family, cricket is just a part of my life, and I want to enjoy it,” he said.
The warm reception that the team received upon its return home has served as motivation. Rossouw is now doubly determined to make his countrymen proud.
“We got a phenomenal welcome when we returned to South Africa. The nation was proud of what we had done. I looked at my tweets. I received thousands of positive tweets, and maybe just one or two negative tweets.”
