India's gamble in playing two spinners in their opening World Cup match against South Africa proved to be a masterstroke as the bowlers spurred them to victory on Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batsmen-clueless-against-bumrah-never-seen-amla-get-out-like-that-in-odis-kohli-224806">captain Virat Kohli</a> said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756">Indians</a>, who are chasing their third World Cup title, condemned the South Africans to their third successive loss in the tournament after Yuzvendra Chahal bamboozled the batsmen with his leg-spin as he grabbed four wickets for 51 runs, while fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with a wicket.

India coasted to a solid, if unspectacular, six-wicket victory with 15 balls remaining after opener Rohit Sharma carried his bat to score an unbeaten 122.

"Picking the two spinners were a massive factor for us," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-quinton-de-kocks-stunning-catch-that-dismissed-indias-virat-kohli-in-world-cup-224765">Kohli </a>told a news conference.

"The last time we played them, they were trying to hit boundaries rather than take singles and as a captain, I will take that any day as there is more of a risk factor in such strokes," Kohli added.

The spin duo picked up the baton after Jasprit Bumrah gave the Indians a great start by dismissing South African openers Hashim Amla and Quinton de Kock inside six overs with a devastating spell of swing bowling.

"Obviously, Bumrah is bowling at a different level and Chahal as a youngster never refuses to take the ball in any condition," added Kohli.

With South Africa restricted to 227-9 from their 50 overs on a batting-friendly wicket, India knew they did not have to take many risks to get the win on the board.

Kohli also rated Sharma's century as the best the opener has scored among the 23 tons he has notched up so far in his career.

Sharma, who got off to a nervous start with a couple of half chances, stroked 122 runs off 144 balls, peppered with 13 boundaries and two sixes.

"Some of the balls were bouncing around and there is always the temptation to hit yourself out of trouble but he brilliantly controlled his innings and held up one end and we never thought he was going to throw his wicket away," Kohli said.

Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019 " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b065685e-9839-4771-9721-7d157e9fa4d1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_22.jpg" />

India travel to the Oval in London on Sunday to face Australia in their next game.

India's gamble in playing two spinners in their opening World Cup match against South Africa proved to be a masterstroke as the bowlers spurred them to victory on Wednesday, captain Virat Kohli said.

India's gamble in playing two spinners in their opening World Cup match against South Africa proved to be a masterstroke as the bowlers spurred them to victory on Wednesday, captain Virat Kohli said. The Indians, who are chasing their third World Cup title, condemned the South Africans to their third successive loss in the tournament after Yuzvendra Chahal bamboozled the batsmen with his leg-spin as he grabbed four wickets for 51 runs, while fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with a wicket. India coasted to a solid, if unspectacular, six-wicket victory with 15 balls remaining after opener Rohit Sharma carried his bat to score an unbeaten 122. "Picking the two spinners were a massive factor for us," Kohli told a news conference. "The last time we played them, they were trying to hit boundaries rather than take singles and as a captain, I will take that any day as there is more of a risk factor in such strokes," Kohli added. The spin duo picked up the baton after Jasprit Bumrah gave the Indians a great start by dismissing South African openers Hashim Amla and Quinton de Kock inside six overs with a devastating spell of swing bowling. "Obviously, Bumrah is bowling at a different level and Chahal as a youngster never refuses to take the ball in any condition," added Kohli. With South Africa restricted to 227-9 from their 50 overs on a batting-friendly wicket, India knew they did not have to take many risks to get the win on the board. Kohli also rated Sharma's century as the best the opener has scored among the 23 tons he has notched up so far in his career. Sharma, who got off to a nervous start with a couple of half chances, stroked 122 runs off 144 balls, peppered with 13 boundaries and two sixes. "Some of the balls were bouncing around and there is always the temptation to hit yourself out of trouble but he brilliantly controlled his innings and held up one end and we never thought he was going to throw his wicket away," Kohli said. Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India travel to the Oval in London on Sunday to face Australia in their next game.

World Cup: Kohli says, picking two spinners was masterstroke in win against South Africa

Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-offered-to-come-out-of-retirement-for-world-cup-224906">retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available</a> for the Cricket World Cup in England.

South Africa have lost all three of their games at the tournament, largely because of a soft middle-order that has missed the quality of one of the world's premier batsmen.

But Zondi said an approach by de Villiers to come out of international retirement for the World Cup had come 24 hours before South Africa were due to announce their final squad, and was rejected out of hand.

"At no point in the year that he had retired did he make himself available for selection," Zondi said in a CSA statement on Thursday.

"It was no option when I received the news on the day of the squad announcement, our squad was finalised and confirmed.

"AB is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, but above all else, we have to stay true to our morals and principles, there is no regret in the decision."

There would also have been a feeling of opportunism on behalf of de Villiers, who had skipped South Africa's build-up to the event, but then sought to be part of the party at the last minute.

"I pleaded with AB de Villiers not to retire in 2018," Zondi added. "Although there was a perception that he was picking and choosing when to play – which was not true – I did give him the option to plan and monitor his season to get him to the World Cup fresh and in a good space.

"We made it clear that he would have to play during the home tours against Sri Lanka and Pakistan to be considered for selection, instead he signed to play in the Pakistan and Bangladesh Premier Leagues respectively.

"He turned down the offer and said he was at peace with his decision to retire."

Zondi admitted that de Villiers' request for inclusion had come as a surprise, and they owed it to other players in the squad who had worked towards being part of the World Cup to stick with them.

"For (captain) Faf du Plessis and (coach) Ottis Gibson to share AB's desire to be included in the squad on the day we announced our World Cup squad on April 18 was a shock to all of us," Zondi said.

"AB left a big vacuum when he retired, we had a year to find players at franchise level to fill the gap. We had players who put in the hard work, who put up their hands and deserved to be given the opportunity to go to the World Cup.

"The decision was based on principle; we had to be fair to the team, the selection panel, our franchise system and players."

De Villiers retired from all forms of international cricket last May, but has played in lucrative Twenty20 competitions since. He had captained South Africa at the 2015 World Cup, when they exited in the semi-finals against New Zealand.

Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available for the Cricket World Cup in England.

Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available for the Cricket World Cup in England. South Africa have lost all three of their games at the tournament, largely because of a soft middle-order that has missed the quality of one of the world's premier batsmen. But Zondi said an approach by de Villiers to come out of international retirement for the World Cup had come 24 hours before South Africa were due to announce their final squad, and was rejected out of hand. "At no point in the year that he had retired did he make himself available for selection," Zondi said in a CSA statement on Thursday. "It was no option when I received the news on the day of the squad announcement, our squad was finalised and confirmed. "AB is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, but above all else, we have to stay true to our morals and principles, there is no regret in the decision." There would also have been a feeling of opportunism on behalf of de Villiers, who had skipped South Africa's build-up to the event, but then sought to be part of the party at the last minute. "I pleaded with AB de Villiers not to retire in 2018," Zondi added. "Although there was a perception that he was picking and choosing when to play – which was not true – I did give him the option to plan and monitor his season to get him to the World Cup fresh and in a good space. "We made it clear that he would have to play during the home tours against Sri Lanka and Pakistan to be considered for selection, instead he signed to play in the Pakistan and Bangladesh Premier Leagues respectively. "He turned down the offer and said he was at peace with his decision to retire." Zondi admitted that de Villiers' request for inclusion had come as a surprise, and they owed it to other players in the squad who had worked towards being part of the World Cup to stick with them. "For (captain) Faf du Plessis and (coach) Ottis Gibson to share AB's desire to be included in the squad on the day we announced our World Cup squad on April 18 was a shock to all of us," Zondi said. "AB left a big vacuum when he retired, we had a year to find players at franchise level to fill the gap. We had players who put in the hard work, who put up their hands and deserved to be given the opportunity to go to the World Cup. "The decision was based on principle; we had to be fair to the team, the selection panel, our franchise system and players." De Villiers retired from all forms of international cricket last May, but has played in lucrative Twenty20 competitions since. He had captained South Africa at the 2015 World Cup, when they exited in the semi-finals against New Zealand.

'No regrets': South Africa on turning down AB de Villiers' comeback offer

India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who bowled an impeccable spell during India's opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Wednesday, revealed that the wicket of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batsmen-clueless-against-bumrah-never-seen-amla-get-out-like-that-in-odis-kohli-224806">South Africa</a> skipper Faf du Plessis was his favourite.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-kohli-says-picking-two-spinners-was-masterstroke-in-win-against-south-africa-224854">Chahal </a>took four wickets and was having a candid conversation with Kuldeep Yadav post the match where the latter asked him about his favourite wicket.

"Faf's wicket was the best as he was playing with small forward-steps and I was drifting the ball really well. The previous two balls, I had bowled him leg spin. So on that ball, I chose to bowl on an angle so the ball drifts and hit the off stump. He couldn't pick it, he thought it was a leg spin, and that's why the ball hit the inside of his bat and hit the stumps," Chahal said in a video posted by Bcci.tv.

Rohit Sharma also displayed a brilliant performance with the bat as he hammered a century to help his side chase down a modest target of 228.

Sharma played an unbeaten knock of 122 runs off 144 balls and Chahal eulogised Sharma for his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-six-wickets-in-cricket-world-cup-224756">match-winning</a> knock.

"The way Rohit Sharma played his inning, especially on this wicket; he showed the temperament that how a batsman should bat. In the beginning, it was not easy but he finished the match which is a plus point," he said.

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bcbfec5e-c887-4e34-a058-90f052993874" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_23.jpg" />

India will now face Australia on June 9.

India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who bowled an impeccable spell during India's opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Wednesday, revealed that the wicket of South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis was his favourite.

India spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who bowled an impeccable spell during India's opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup on Wednesday, revealed that the wicket of South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis was his favourite. Chahal took four wickets and was having a candid conversation with Kuldeep Yadav post the match where the latter asked him about his favourite wicket. "Faf's wicket was the best as he was playing with small forward-steps and I was drifting the ball really well. The previous two balls, I had bowled him leg spin. So on that ball, I chose to bowl on an angle so the ball drifts and hit the off stump. He couldn't pick it, he thought it was a leg spin, and that's why the ball hit the inside of his bat and hit the stumps," Chahal said in a video posted by Bcci.tv. Rohit Sharma also displayed a brilliant performance with the bat as he hammered a century to help his side chase down a modest target of 228. Sharma played an unbeaten knock of 122 runs off 144 balls and Chahal eulogised Sharma for his match-winning knock. "The way Rohit Sharma played his inning, especially on this wicket; he showed the temperament that how a batsman should bat. In the beginning, it was not easy but he finished the match which is a plus point," he said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India will now face Australia on June 9.

World Cup: Yuzvendra Chahal terms Faf du Plessis' wicket as 'favourite'

Ahead of India opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, India batsman Yusuf Pathan has expressed his confidence in the team, saying that team's performance in the last many years has been really good and players are in good form.

"I wish 'Eid Mubarak'&nbsp;to everyone. Indian team's preparation has been very good and they have been playing very good cricket in the last many years and also all the players were in good form during the IPL. It is a big tournament. Inshallah, they will do good," Pathan told ANI on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-virat-kohlis-india-begins-campaign-against-stunned-south-africa-224406">India's first match</a> in the premier tournament will be played against South Africa, who are playing their third match of the tournament.

However, South Africa are on a dismal run as they have lost both the matches.

During the opening match of the World Cup, South Africa faced a massive 104-run defeat at the hands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-chris-woakes-backs-england-to-bounce-back-from-pakistan-defeat-224431">England</a>, followed by a 21-run defeat against Bangladesh.

Therefore, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-can-still-reach-world-cup-semis-without-steyn-says-faf-du-plessis-224351">South Africa</a> will be aiming to make a strong comeback in the tournament, but nothing is going well for the Proteas.

Hashim Amla and Lungi Ngidi missed their previous clash against Bangladesh as the former faced a blow to head during their match against England while the latter suffered a hamstring injury.

Moreover, Dale Steyn has also been ruled out of the World Cup owing to shoulder injury.

India, who are one of the favourites in the tournament, have a strong squad under the leadership of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-expect-century-but-my-focus-is-on-victory-says-virat-kohli-ahead-of-south-africa-clash-224280">Virat Kohli </a>and the team also feature 2011 World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni.

It will, therefore, be interesting to see whether South Africa manage to revive themselves or India justify their favourite tag.

Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b7bd3766-faf0-4a67-b48e-d6f09fb369c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_21.jpg" />

India will compete with South Africa at the Rose Bowl cricket ground on June 5.

Ahead of India opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, India batsman Yusuf Pathan has expressed his confidence in the team, saying that team's performance in the last many years has been really good and players are in good form.

Ahead of India opening match in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, India batsman Yusuf Pathan has expressed his confidence in the team, saying that team's performance in the last many years has been really good and players are in good form. "I wish 'Eid Mubarak' to everyone. Indian team's preparation has been very good and they have been playing very good cricket in the last many years and also all the players were in good form during the IPL. It is a big tournament. Inshallah, they will do good," Pathan told ANI on Wednesday. India's first match in the premier tournament will be played against South Africa, who are playing their third match of the tournament. However, South Africa are on a dismal run as they have lost both the matches. During the opening match of the World Cup, South Africa faced a massive 104-run defeat at the hands of England, followed by a 21-run defeat against Bangladesh. Therefore, South Africa will be aiming to make a strong comeback in the tournament, but nothing is going well for the Proteas. Hashim Amla and Lungi Ngidi missed their previous clash against Bangladesh as the former faced a blow to head during their match against England while the latter suffered a hamstring injury. Moreover, Dale Steyn has also been ruled out of the World Cup owing to shoulder injury. India, who are one of the favourites in the tournament, have a strong squad under the leadership of Virat Kohli and the team also feature 2011 World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni. It will, therefore, be interesting to see whether South Africa manage to revive themselves or India justify their favourite tag. Here's a complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: India will compete with South Africa at the Rose Bowl cricket ground on June 5.

World Cup: Yusuf Pathan confident of India doing well ahead of opener with South Africa

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-prepared-to-talk-to-iran-but-says-always-a-chance-of-military-action-224490">Donald Trump prepared to talk to Iran but says always a chance of military action</a>

Trump told British television station ITV that &nbsp;Iran is a place that was extremely hostile when he first came into office.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-administrations-immigration-rules-hurting-american-dream-of-indian-techies-report-224564">Trump administration's immigration rules hurting American dream of Indian techies: Report&nbsp;</a> 
 
Critics attribute the lower rate of approvals to the Trump administration's aggressive policy to clamp down on the work visa programme, however, the new immigration policies have made it harder even for tech companies to bring highly skilled workers to the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/monsoon-rains-to-arrive-on-southern-coast-around-june-8-imd-224624">Monsoon rains to arrive on southern coast around June 8: IMD</a> 
 
Monsoon rains usually arrive in Kerala around June 1 and retreat from Rajasthan by September.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-8-south-africa-vs-india-224495">Innings break | SAvIND: South Africa set 228-run target against India</a>

South Africa set a 228-run target against India. India's spinners plunged South Africa deeper into trouble in their World Cup match in Southampton on Wednesday, backing up paceman Jasprit Bumrah, who did the early damage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mission-to-recover-climbers-bodies-from-nanda-devi-could-take-10-days-or-more-224560">Mission to recover climbers' bodies from Nanda Devi could take 10 days or more</a> 
 
An Indian Air Force helicopter on Monday spotted five bodies partially buried in snow high on a mountain slope.

Donald Trump prepared to talk to Iran but says always a chance of military action Trump told British television station ITV that Iran is a place that was extremely hostile when he first came into office.

Donald Trump prepared to talk to Iran but says always a chance of military action Trump told British television station ITV that Iran is a place that was extremely hostile when he first came into office. Trump administration's immigration rules hurting American dream of Indian techies: Report Critics attribute the lower rate of approvals to the Trump administration's aggressive policy to clamp down on the work visa programme, however, the new immigration policies have made it harder even for tech companies to bring highly skilled workers to the US. Monsoon rains to arrive on southern coast around June 8: IMD Monsoon rains usually arrive in Kerala around June 1 and retreat from Rajasthan by September. Innings break | SAvIND: South Africa set 228-run target against India South Africa set a 228-run target against India. India's spinners plunged South Africa deeper into trouble in their World Cup match in Southampton on Wednesday, backing up paceman Jasprit Bumrah, who did the early damage. Mission to recover climbers' bodies from Nanda Devi could take 10 days or more An Indian Air Force helicopter on Monday spotted five bodies partially buried in snow high on a mountain slope.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Key players in India vs South Africa World Cup clash

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-expect-century-but-my-focus-is-on-victory-says-virat-kohli-ahead-of-south-africa-clash-224280">Virat Kohli</a> will embark on the most defining journey of his international career, carrying the hopes of more than a billion when he leads India against an injury-hit South Africa in their World Cup opener here Wednesday.&nbsp;

Kohli is one of the best batsmen of this era but this edition of the World Cup will define his legacy as a leader, an aspect on which the jury is still out despite some heady achievements in the Test arena.&nbsp;

The current team does have potent match-winners with the skipper himself being the biggest of them all but it still misses the aura, the 'class of 2011' under Mahendra Singh Dhoni had.&nbsp;

Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh were in a different league with the support cast comprising Munaf Patel, Ashish Nehra, Suresh Raina and a young Kohli.&nbsp;

But this team, led by Kohli and mentored by Dhoni, has had its share of good results and six wins in nine games would ensure a smooth passage into the semi-finals.&nbsp;

Two years of investment has gone into building a potent ODI squad, something that started right after the 2017 Champions Trophy final loss against Pakistan.&nbsp;

The 'Men In Blue' have had adequate rest. All other teams have already played two games each and they can't wait to kick-start their campaign with a commanding performance.&nbsp;

The first match in a tournament of such vast magnitude is always important and South Africa's confidence will be at its lowest following back-to-back defeats against England and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

To make matters worse, senior speedster Dale Steyn has been ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury and has been replaced by left-arm seamer Beuran Hendricks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is also out for at least tomorrow's game with a hamstring strain. Hashim Amla got a nasty hit on the helmet off Jofra Archer's short ball against England in the opening game.&nbsp;

The clash couldn't possibly have been more well-timed as India have a chance to hold the Proteas by the scruff of their neck when they are seemingly at their weakest.&nbsp;

However, a cornered opponent is always a dangerous proposition and head coach Ravi Shastri, a shrewd tactician by all means, will be surely making the players aware of the consequences of taking their foot off the pedal.&nbsp;

The pitch at the Ageas Bowl stadium in Southampton, devoid of grass cover, is expected to be a batting-friendly but Kohli will have a few points to ponder upon as the weather forecast on match day indicates cloud cover with intermittent shower.&nbsp;

Will the third seamer in Bhuvneshwar Kumar come into the picture? Does Ravindra Jadeja's warm-up matches' form get more credence than Kuldeep Yadav-Yuzvendra Chahal's 22-month show in tandem? Does Kedar Jadhav fit in without playing a single game for a month or Vijay Shankar gets a look in?&nbsp;

These are some of the pressing questions that skipper Kohli needs to address going into the first game. 
There's no doubt that the Proteas are badly hit by poor form and injuries but it may just take one fiery spell from Kagiso Rabada to straighten things up.&nbsp;

A bit of help from the weather conditions with his scorching pace and ability to move the ball, Rabada could just unsettle the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, who haven't had the best of times during the past few months.&nbsp;

Both are capable of turning the match on its head but they could be short on confidence due to lack of runs since the start of the away ODIs against Australia.&nbsp;

Rohit's apparent weakness against leg-spinners could be exploited by rival captain Faf du Plessis, who can again think of giving the new ball to Imran Tahir.&nbsp;

KL Rahul is expected to take the No. 4 slot but it needs to be seen as to how well he performs when the condition are nippy. Dhoni at No 5 will be the stabilising factor and if he bats like the Bangladesh warm-up game, he can be a nightmare for the Proteas attack.&nbsp;

But what will be a bigger worry for Du Plessis will be the batting where AB de Villiers' absence has surely had an impact. The poor technique of Proteas batsmen against slow bowlers have been time and again exposed and 20 overs of quality spin bowling could be too hot to handle for the South Africans.

In all, it's advantage for&nbsp;India at Southampton.

Virat Kohli will embark on the most defining journey of his international career, carrying the hopes of more than a billion when he leads India against an injury-hit South Africa in their World Cup opener here Wednesday.

Virat Kohli will embark on the most defining journey of his international career, carrying the hopes of more than a billion when he leads India against an injury-hit South Africa in their World Cup opener here Wednesday. Kohli is one of the best batsmen of this era but this edition of the World Cup will define his legacy as a leader, an aspect on which the jury is still out despite some heady achievements in the Test arena. The current team does have potent match-winners with the skipper himself being the biggest of them all but it still misses the aura, the 'class of 2011' under Mahendra Singh Dhoni had. Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh were in a different league with the support cast comprising Munaf Patel, Ashish Nehra, Suresh Raina and a young Kohli. But this team, led by Kohli and mentored by Dhoni, has had its share of good results and six wins in nine games would ensure a smooth passage into the semi-finals. Two years of investment has gone into building a potent ODI squad, something that started right after the 2017 Champions Trophy final loss against Pakistan. The 'Men In Blue' have had adequate rest. All other teams have already played two games each and they can't wait to kick-start their campaign with a commanding performance. The first match in a tournament of such vast magnitude is always important and South Africa's confidence will be at its lowest following back-to-back defeats against England and Bangladesh. To make matters worse, senior speedster Dale Steyn has been ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury and has been replaced by left-arm seamer Beuran Hendricks. Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi is also out for at least tomorrow's game with a hamstring strain. Hashim Amla got a nasty hit on the helmet off Jofra Archer's short ball against England in the opening game. The clash couldn't possibly have been more well-timed as India have a chance to hold the Proteas by the scruff of their neck when they are seemingly at their weakest. However, a cornered opponent is always a dangerous proposition and head coach Ravi Shastri, a shrewd tactician by all means, will be surely making the players aware of the consequences of taking their foot off the pedal. The pitch at the Ageas Bowl stadium in Southampton, devoid of grass cover, is expected to be a batting-friendly but Kohli will have a few points to ponder upon as the weather forecast on match day indicates cloud cover with intermittent shower. Will the third seamer in Bhuvneshwar Kumar come into the picture? Does Ravindra Jadeja's warm-up matches' form get more credence than Kuldeep Yadav-Yuzvendra Chahal's 22-month show in tandem? Does Kedar Jadhav fit in without playing a single game for a month or Vijay Shankar gets a look in? These are some of the pressing questions that skipper Kohli needs to address going into the first game. There's no doubt that the Proteas are badly hit by poor form and injuries but it may just take one fiery spell from Kagiso Rabada to straighten things up. A bit of help from the weather conditions with his scorching pace and ability to move the ball, Rabada could just unsettle the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, who haven't had the best of times during the past few months. Both are capable of turning the match on its head but they could be short on confidence due to lack of runs since the start of the away ODIs against Australia. Rohit's apparent weakness against leg-spinners could be exploited by rival captain Faf du Plessis, who can again think of giving the new ball to Imran Tahir. KL Rahul is expected to take the No. 4 slot but it needs to be seen as to how well he performs when the condition are nippy. Dhoni at No 5 will be the stabilising factor and if he bats like the Bangladesh warm-up game, he can be a nightmare for the Proteas attack. But what will be a bigger worry for Du Plessis will be the batting where AB de Villiers' absence has surely had an impact. The poor technique of Proteas batsmen against slow bowlers have been time and again exposed and 20 overs of quality spin bowling could be too hot to handle for the South Africans. In all, it's advantage for India at Southampton.

Let the action begin: Mighty India face low on confidence South Africa

Ahead of their third match of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup tournament</a>, the South African team has suffered a major blow as their&nbsp;fast bowler, Dale&nbsp;Steyn has been ruled&nbsp;out after failing to recover from a shoulder injury.&nbsp;

Steyn&nbsp;was injured during the eleventh edition of&nbsp;Indian Premier League and has already&nbsp;missed the first two games of the World Cup.&nbsp;

Now, the Faf du Plessis-led side is gearing up to face the two-time World Cup winner, Team India on June 5.&nbsp;

On Monday,&nbsp;Steyn was bowling in the nets during the practice session but it was just not enough to make a comeback.

Watch the video:

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After watching his side slump to a second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> defeat, Dale Steyn bowled a couple of overs in the middle as he races to be fit for South Africa's must-win clash against India on Wednesday. <a href="https://t.co/N8I2FvgWio">pic.twitter.com/N8I2FvgWio</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1135260119997001728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He will be replaced by left-arm paceman Beuran Hendricks in South Africa's squad for the rest of the tournament.&nbsp;

Hendricks&nbsp;made his ODI debut in January this year against Pakistan.&nbsp;

Ahead of their third match of the World Cup tournament, the South African team has suffered a major blow as their fast bowler, Dale Steyn has been ruled out after failing to recover from a shoulder injury.

Ahead of their third match of the World Cup tournament, the South African team has suffered a major blow as their fast bowler, Dale Steyn has been ruled out after failing to recover from a shoulder injury. Steyn was injured during the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League and has already missed the first two games of the World Cup. Now, the Faf du Plessis-led side is gearing up to face the two-time World Cup winner, Team India on June 5. On Monday, Steyn was bowling in the nets during the practice session but it was just not enough to make a comeback. Watch the video: After watching his side slump to a second #CWC19 defeat, Dale Steyn bowled a couple of overs in the middle as he races to be fit for South Africa's must-win clash against India on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/N8I2FvgWio — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 2, 2019 × He will be replaced by left-arm paceman Beuran Hendricks in South Africa's squad for the rest of the tournament. Hendricks made his ODI debut in January this year against Pakistan.

World Cup: South African pacer Dale Steyn ruled out of tournament due to shoulder injury

South Africa cannot afford any more mistakes at the World Cup and will need to win almost all their remaining seven games if they hope to qualify for the semi-finals, former all-rounder Jacques Kallis has said.

South Africa lost their tournament opener to England by 104 runs before they suffered an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-beat-south-africa-by-21-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-223723">upset 21-run defeat against Bangladesh</a> on Sunday.

"I think you'll need six wins, maybe five with a really good run rate, to finish in the top four," Kallis said in a column for the International Cricket Council.

"So South Africa almost need to win every game they will play. There will be no margin for error," he added.&nbsp;

The top four teams from the new round-robin format qualify for the semi-finals and defeat against India on Wednesday could also potentially affect South Africa's net run rate, which will decide the final standings if teams are tied on points and wins.

"It doesn't get any easier though against India but it's their first game and our third, so maybe that could give us the edge we need," Kallis added.

"They've not played for a week and maybe there will be some first game nerves, whereas we're settled.

"Strange things happen in this sport and if we can get a win then I think we can go on a streak and we are still good enough to be a contender."

South Africa vs Bangladesh match in numbers:
<img alt="Match 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0784e6de-d258-4b15-a381-85c60509c6e4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%205.jpg" />
Kallis criticised captain Faf du Plessis for the lack of a backup plan during Bangladesh's innings.

"It's great having a game plan but you need to have a back-up when it's not working, I felt we were one step behind the entire match and just tactically a bit off," he said. "We need to be a bit smarter."

Injuries to South Africa's pace attack have also thrown a spanner in the works with experienced Dale Steyn yet to fully recover from a shoulder injury and Lungi Ngidi injuring his hamstring against Bangladesh.

"The injury to Lungi Ngidi certainly didn't help Faf," Kallis added. "He's a world-class player and a big part of our attack. You've got to play Dale Steyn against India now, and hopefully he is close to fitness.

"We've got to play all our cards and we can't afford anymore silly mistakes at vital stages. These are the best sides in the world and they'll always punish you."

South Africa cannot afford any more mistakes at the World Cup and will need to win almost all their remaining seven games if they hope to qualify for the semi-finals, former all-rounder Jacques Kallis has said.

South Africa cannot afford any more mistakes at the World Cup and will need to win almost all their remaining seven games if they hope to qualify for the semi-finals, former all-rounder Jacques Kallis has said. South Africa lost their tournament opener to England by 104 runs before they suffered an upset 21-run defeat against Bangladesh on Sunday. "I think you'll need six wins, maybe five with a really good run rate, to finish in the top four," Kallis said in a column for the International Cricket Council. "So South Africa almost need to win every game they will play. There will be no margin for error," he added. The top four teams from the new round-robin format qualify for the semi-finals and defeat against India on Wednesday could also potentially affect South Africa's net run rate, which will decide the final standings if teams are tied on points and wins. "It doesn't get any easier though against India but it's their first game and our third, so maybe that could give us the edge we need," Kallis added. "They've not played for a week and maybe there will be some first game nerves, whereas we're settled. "Strange things happen in this sport and if we can get a win then I think we can go on a streak and we are still good enough to be a contender." South Africa vs Bangladesh match in numbers: Kallis criticised captain Faf du Plessis for the lack of a backup plan during Bangladesh's innings. "It's great having a game plan but you need to have a back-up when it's not working, I felt we were one step behind the entire match and just tactically a bit off," he said. "We need to be a bit smarter." Injuries to South Africa's pace attack have also thrown a spanner in the works with experienced Dale Steyn yet to fully recover from a shoulder injury and Lungi Ngidi injuring his hamstring against Bangladesh. "The injury to Lungi Ngidi certainly didn't help Faf," Kallis added. "He's a world-class player and a big part of our attack. You've got to play Dale Steyn against India now, and hopefully he is close to fitness. "We've got to play all our cards and we can't afford anymore silly mistakes at vital stages. These are the best sides in the world and they'll always punish you."

South Africa can't afford any more mistakes, says Jacques Kallis

Bangladesh defeated South Africa by 21&nbsp;runs after posting their highest one-day international score in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Sunday at the Oval stadium.&nbsp;

South Africa kept losing wickets on regular intervals and failed to reached the set target of 331 runs.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's pacers Mohammad Saifuddin and Mustafizur Rahman thrashed the opponent with their brilliant bowling.&nbsp;

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis won the toss and fielded, but his decision backfired badly as Bangladesh put his lethargic bowling attack to the sword.

In the first innings, Mushfiqur made 78 from 80 balls and Shakib's 75 came from 84 balls as the pair combined in a 142-run partnership.

That was Bangladesh's highest World Cup stand and set the stage to beat their previous highest ODI total of 329 for six against Pakistan in 2015.

Thrashed by a 104 runs in their first match against England on Thursday, South Africa, deprived of key batsman Hashim Amla due to a head injury suffered in that loss, will have to score 331 to avoid a second successive defeat.

Tamim Iqbal was fit to open the batting after a wrist injury, but it was Soumya Sarkar who hit the first boundary, his flick off Lungi Ngidi bringing a huge roar from Bangladesh fans who made up the majority of the crowd at the Oval, the south London headquarters of Surrey.

Those green-shirt clad Bangladesh supporters were back on the feet as Tamim and Soumya, who hit five fours in six balls at one point, brought up their fifty partnership in just seven overs.

After conceding 27 in two overs, the barrage took its toll on Ngidi, who fielded a Tamim shot and petulantly threw at the stumps, forcing the Bangladesh opener to fend it away in self-preservation.

Moments later, Ngidi trudged from the pitch, reportedly suffering from a tight hamstring.

In his first over, South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo broke the partnership with 60 on the board when he induced an edge from Tamim that was held by wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock.

Soumya had made a dazzling 42 in 30 balls when his aggression got the better of him with a miscued hook off Chris Morris that was well caught by the diving de Kock.

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How good were these two with the bat earlier? 
 
Their 142-run stand was Bangladesh's highest ever in Cricket World Cups!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RiseOfTheTigers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RiseOfTheTigers</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvBAN</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://t.co/P25KwPosqI">pic.twitter.com/P25KwPosqI</a>
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1135239916844195840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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With part-time bowlers Aiden Markram and JP Duminy filling in for the absent Ngidi and Dale Steyn sidelined again by a shoulder injury, South Africa's bowling attack was hardly threatening as Shakib reached his fifty with ease.

Du Plessis was visibly frustrated, gesticulating angrily as Shakib and Mushfiqur took their partnership past a hundred runs.

Imran Tahir delivered a desperately needed breakthrough on his 100th ODI appearance, the 40-year-old spinner breaking the 142-run stand when he bowled the sweeping Shakib.

Mushfiqur perished after a risky slog off Phehlukwayo to leave Bangladesh on 250 or five in the 43rd over.

But after going six overs without a boundary, Bangladesh finished their innings with a flourish thanks to powerful stroke-play from Mahmudullah (46 not out) and Mosaddek Hossain (26).

Bangladesh defeated South Africa by 21 runs after posting their highest one-day international score in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Sunday at the Oval stadium.

Bangladesh defeated South Africa by 21 runs after posting their highest one-day international score in their campaign opener of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Sunday at the Oval stadium. South Africa kept losing wickets on regular intervals and failed to reached the set target of 331 runs. Bangladesh's pacers Mohammad Saifuddin and Mustafizur Rahman thrashed the opponent with their brilliant bowling. South Africa captain Faf du Plessis won the toss and fielded, but his decision backfired badly as Bangladesh put his lethargic bowling attack to the sword. In the first innings, Mushfiqur made 78 from 80 balls and Shakib's 75 came from 84 balls as the pair combined in a 142-run partnership. That was Bangladesh's highest World Cup stand and set the stage to beat their previous highest ODI total of 329 for six against Pakistan in 2015. Thrashed by a 104 runs in their first match against England on Thursday, South Africa, deprived of key batsman Hashim Amla due to a head injury suffered in that loss, will have to score 331 to avoid a second successive defeat. Tamim Iqbal was fit to open the batting after a wrist injury, but it was Soumya Sarkar who hit the first boundary, his flick off Lungi Ngidi bringing a huge roar from Bangladesh fans who made up the majority of the crowd at the Oval, the south London headquarters of Surrey. Those green-shirt clad Bangladesh supporters were back on the feet as Tamim and Soumya, who hit five fours in six balls at one point, brought up their fifty partnership in just seven overs. After conceding 27 in two overs, the barrage took its toll on Ngidi, who fielded a Tamim shot and petulantly threw at the stumps, forcing the Bangladesh opener to fend it away in self-preservation. Moments later, Ngidi trudged from the pitch, reportedly suffering from a tight hamstring. In his first over, South Africa's Andile Phehlukwayo broke the partnership with 60 on the board when he induced an edge from Tamim that was held by wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock. Soumya had made a dazzling 42 in 30 balls when his aggression got the better of him with a miscued hook off Chris Morris that was well caught by the diving de Kock. How good were these two with the bat earlier? Their 142-run stand was Bangladesh's highest ever in Cricket World Cups!#RiseOfTheTigers | #SAvBAN | #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/P25KwPosqI — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 2, 2019 × With part-time bowlers Aiden Markram and JP Duminy filling in for the absent Ngidi and Dale Steyn sidelined again by a shoulder injury, South Africa's bowling attack was hardly threatening as Shakib reached his fifty with ease. Du Plessis was visibly frustrated, gesticulating angrily as Shakib and Mushfiqur took their partnership past a hundred runs. Imran Tahir delivered a desperately needed breakthrough on his 100th ODI appearance, the 40-year-old spinner breaking the 142-run stand when he bowled the sweeping Shakib. Mushfiqur perished after a risky slog off Phehlukwayo to leave Bangladesh on 250 or five in the 43rd over. But after going six overs without a boundary, Bangladesh finished their innings with a flourish thanks to powerful stroke-play from Mahmudullah (46 not out) and Mosaddek Hossain (26).

Bangladesh beat South Africa by 21 runs in Cricket World Cup

World Cup: South Africa aim to bounce back against injury-stricken Bangladesh

Bangladesh's injury woes continued with opener Tamim Iqbal suffering a wrist injury while batting in the nets ahead of their opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-a-fast-bowler-thunders-andre-russell-after-startling-pakistan-in-their-world-cup-opener-223332">World Cup</a> match against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-were-better-than-us-in-all-facets-of-the-game-says-faf-du-plessis-after-defeat-in-world-cup-2019-opener-223068">South Africa</a> at The Oval here on Sunday.

The experienced left-handed batsman was immediately rushed to the dressing room along with physio Thian Chandramohan after being hit on his left wrist during the practice session.

He is expected to undergo a precautionary X-ray.

"It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available," selector Habibul Bashar said.&nbsp;

"But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game,"&nbsp;Bashar said.&nbsp;

Tamim is Bangladesh's batting mainstay, having played at the 2007 World Cup. He played an important role by blasting two fifties during their tri-series ODI win in Ireland earlier this month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-kl-rahul-hit-tons-as-india-beat-bangladesh-in-world-cup-warm-up-222416">Bangladesh </a>is already sweating over the fitness of some of their key players such as Mohammad Saifuddin (recovering from a back problem), Mashrafe Mortaza (hamstring), Mustafizur Rahman (calf) and Mahmudullah (shoulder).&nbsp;

Spin-allrounder Shakib Al Hasan had also suffered a back spasm recently but is likely to be fit for the opening match.

Bangladesh's injury woes continued with opener Tamim Iqbal suffering a wrist injury while batting in the nets ahead of their opening World Cup match against South Africa at The Oval here on Sunday.

Bangladesh's injury woes continued with opener Tamim Iqbal suffering a wrist injury while batting in the nets ahead of their opening World Cup match against South Africa at The Oval here on Sunday. The experienced left-handed batsman was immediately rushed to the dressing room along with physio Thian Chandramohan after being hit on his left wrist during the practice session. He is expected to undergo a precautionary X-ray. "It's too early to say anything specific but we will have an X-ray and if there is a fracture, then he won't be available," selector Habibul Bashar said. "But if that is not the case, then we can hope he will be available for the opening game," Bashar said. Tamim is Bangladesh's batting mainstay, having played at the 2007 World Cup. He played an important role by blasting two fifties during their tri-series ODI win in Ireland earlier this month. Bangladesh is already sweating over the fitness of some of their key players such as Mohammad Saifuddin (recovering from a back problem), Mashrafe Mortaza (hamstring), Mustafizur Rahman (calf) and Mahmudullah (shoulder). Spin-allrounder Shakib Al Hasan had also suffered a back spasm recently but is likely to be fit for the opening match.

World Cup 2019: Bangladesh's Tamim Iqbal faces injury scare ahead of campaign opener against South Africa

Up front, seated a few feet away behind a table as he addressed the media gathered inside the basement of The Oval a day before the ICC Cricket World Cup begins, Faf du Plessis looks like he’s aged.

It’s not a slight. It’s in the context of his cricket; where he’s reached, what he’s gone through leading South Africa through some good times and some tough times, and of where he sits today. It is visible in the creases on his face and the way he his eyes slit when he emphasises certain words.

Du Plessis is only 34, but he looks like he’s been through a lot more.

In the context of where he and the South African cricket team are a day before the World Cup opener at The Oval against host and top-ranked England, du Plessis did not try and mask his emotions when asked about what he feels right now, about his career and his drive.

This is du Plessis’ third World Cup, and first as captain. Asked before the opener about about how he’s changed as a cricketer and individual, his answer was revealing: “Like anyone sitting here today, whether you’re playing cricket or in business or in life or in sport, it’s no different. You know, the older you get, the wiser you get. You know, being a father now, everything gets put into perspective.

“Cricket is a very important aspect of all of our lives, but it’s not everything. You know, life, there’s a lot more bigger things than winning and losing games of cricket. And that, perhaps, has changed for me. The fact that I’m no longer desperate; I want to win cricket games but I don’t need to win them.

“I think as a team, hopefully that can filter through, because no one taught me that four, five years ago, playing in these events, and hopefully that gives the guys on the rest of the team just a little bit more of a relaxedness to them; that the absolute worst-case scenario, you don’t make it, and that’s okay, life will go on. And if players are a little bit more free, and can just play their best version of themselves, then that’s great. That’s all I’m looking for.”

This should not come as bad news for South African cricket fans. Far from it. Du Plessis’ response reveals his state of mind, and it is refreshing. This is a game, after all, not war.

For du Plessis, winning cricket games at the World Cup is the target, definitely. The difference now, as leader and a senior statesman, is his outlook on the sport.

“As I’ve said, a lot of times my most enjoyable times playing cricket is when I do captain any cricket team, and especially this one,” continued du Plessis. “I’m just excited that it’s another opportunity for me to go and do that. You know, get my brain nice and active on the field and tactically thinking about the game all the time. I just feel that puts me in the space that I want to be playing cricket, so it’s just another opportunity for me for me to do it.”

South Africa have, surprisingly, flown under the radar in the buildup to the World Cup. Ever since their reintroduction to international cricket in 1992, not a World Cup has gone by where South African teams have not been spoken of highly. But from 1992 to 2015, their ending at the tournament has come in heart-breaking scenes.

This team is ranked third in ODIs. In 2019, they’ve swept Sri Lanka 5-0 and beaten Pakista 3-2, all at home. South Africa will be without Dale Steyn for game one of the World Cup, with the veteran fast bowler not 100% fit. The team is putting a lot of faith on the sturdy shoulders of Kagiso Rabada, ranked five in ODIs but playing his first World Cup. Hashim Amla‘s inconsistent form is not a worry, says du Plessis, after the veteran scored half-centuries in both World Cup warm-up matches.

There are younger players like Aiden Markram and Andile Phehlukwayo, whom South Africa want to use to their maximum potential in the tournament.

For du Plessis, keeping the mood in the camp positive and “fun” is more important than getting carried away with pre-tournament chatter and expectations.

“For me as captain, it’s about making sure that we can try and put the noise to one side and just relax as much as we can, try and have fun, control the things that we can do,” he said. “You know, practise hard. Practise well. Have a good culture, have a good language in our culture, and then completely release the outcome and hopefully that frees up the players to play their best cricket.

“It’s just about making sure — there is probably a little bit more noise around a first game; there’s probably a little bit more noise because it’s a World Cup.”

Du Plessis, as captain and pivotal middle-order batsman, is intent on keeping the mood upbeat. In contrast to former captain AB de Villiers’ talk during the 2015 World Cup, du Plessis is not talking about the weight of history of pressure to win the tournament. He is focused on keeping the mood upbeat.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa

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“Rreally, really excited to see the young guys, how well they are going to step up in this tournament, and then the older guys, yeah, as you said, some guys have stated that they finishing after this tournament, you know, but that’s not — that’s not the focus,” he said.

“For me, the focus on making sure that we can look at playing the style of cricket we want to do, and whether that guarantees success for some of the older guys or not, that’s not the focus. They are here to make sure that they enjoy every day as best as possible. I think when you get a little bit older, that becomes a little bit more natural. You take the pressure off. This is something I have to do or need to do to something that I love to do.

“So you go back to that younger version of yourself, so hopefully that will free some of the older guys up a little bit.”

Du Plessis’ statements today will draw mixed responses from fans of South Africa, but underneath what he says lies a refreshing positivity. Whether it remains positive is an aspect of this team that is sure to draw a lot of attention.

South Africa may be under the radar so far, but it won’t be the case from May 30.

(This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the <a href="https://www.cricketcountry.com/news/cricket-world-cup-2019-theres-a-lot-more-bigger-things-than-winning-and-losing-cricket-games-faf-du-plessis-849370">original article</a>)&nbsp;

Up front, seated a few feet away behind a table as he addressed the media gathered inside the basement of The Oval a day before the ICC Cricket World Cup begins, Faf du Plessis looks like he’s aged.

Up front, seated a few feet away behind a table as he addressed the media gathered inside the basement of The Oval a day before the ICC Cricket World Cup begins, Faf du Plessis looks like he’s aged. It’s not a slight. It’s in the context of his cricket; where he’s reached, what he’s gone through leading South Africa through some good times and some tough times, and of where he sits today. It is visible in the creases on his face and the way he his eyes slit when he emphasises certain words. Du Plessis is only 34, but he looks like he’s been through a lot more. In the context of where he and the South African cricket team are a day before the World Cup opener at The Oval against host and top-ranked England, du Plessis did not try and mask his emotions when asked about what he feels right now, about his career and his drive. This is du Plessis’ third World Cup, and first as captain. Asked before the opener about about how he’s changed as a cricketer and individual, his answer was revealing: “Like anyone sitting here today, whether you’re playing cricket or in business or in life or in sport, it’s no different. You know, the older you get, the wiser you get. You know, being a father now, everything gets put into perspective. “Cricket is a very important aspect of all of our lives, but it’s not everything. You know, life, there’s a lot more bigger things than winning and losing games of cricket. And that, perhaps, has changed for me. The fact that I’m no longer desperate; I want to win cricket games but I don’t need to win them. “I think as a team, hopefully that can filter through, because no one taught me that four, five years ago, playing in these events, and hopefully that gives the guys on the rest of the team just a little bit more of a relaxedness to them; that the absolute worst-case scenario, you don’t make it, and that’s okay, life will go on. And if players are a little bit more free, and can just play their best version of themselves, then that’s great. That’s all I’m looking for.” This should not come as bad news for South African cricket fans. Far from it. Du Plessis’ response reveals his state of mind, and it is refreshing. This is a game, after all, not war. For du Plessis, winning cricket games at the World Cup is the target, definitely. The difference now, as leader and a senior statesman, is his outlook on the sport. “As I’ve said, a lot of times my most enjoyable times playing cricket is when I do captain any cricket team, and especially this one,” continued du Plessis. “I’m just excited that it’s another opportunity for me to go and do that. You know, get my brain nice and active on the field and tactically thinking about the game all the time. I just feel that puts me in the space that I want to be playing cricket, so it’s just another opportunity for me for me to do it.” South Africa have, surprisingly, flown under the radar in the buildup to the World Cup. Ever since their reintroduction to international cricket in 1992, not a World Cup has gone by where South African teams have not been spoken of highly. But from 1992 to 2015, their ending at the tournament has come in heart-breaking scenes. This team is ranked third in ODIs. In 2019, they’ve swept Sri Lanka 5-0 and beaten Pakista 3-2, all at home. South Africa will be without Dale Steyn for game one of the World Cup, with the veteran fast bowler not 100% fit. The team is putting a lot of faith on the sturdy shoulders of Kagiso Rabada, ranked five in ODIs but playing his first World Cup. Hashim Amla‘s inconsistent form is not a worry, says du Plessis, after the veteran scored half-centuries in both World Cup warm-up matches. There are younger players like Aiden Markram and Andile Phehlukwayo, whom South Africa want to use to their maximum potential in the tournament. For du Plessis, keeping the mood in the camp positive and “fun” is more important than getting carried away with pre-tournament chatter and expectations. “For me as captain, it’s about making sure that we can try and put the noise to one side and just relax as much as we can, try and have fun, control the things that we can do,” he said. “You know, practise hard. Practise well. Have a good culture, have a good language in our culture, and then completely release the outcome and hopefully that frees up the players to play their best cricket. “It’s just about making sure — there is probably a little bit more noise around a first game; there’s probably a little bit more noise because it’s a World Cup.” Du Plessis, as captain and pivotal middle-order batsman, is intent on keeping the mood upbeat. In contrast to former captain AB de Villiers’ talk during the 2015 World Cup, du Plessis is not talking about the weight of history of pressure to win the tournament. He is focused on keeping the mood upbeat. Watch: Jamie Alter's report from ground zero ahead of the opening match between England and South Africa × “Rreally, really excited to see the young guys, how well they are going to step up in this tournament, and then the older guys, yeah, as you said, some guys have stated that they finishing after this tournament, you know, but that’s not — that’s not the focus,” he said. “For me, the focus on making sure that we can look at playing the style of cricket we want to do, and whether that guarantees success for some of the older guys or not, that’s not the focus. They are here to make sure that they enjoy every day as best as possible. I think when you get a little bit older, that becomes a little bit more natural. You take the pressure off. This is something I have to do or need to do to something that I love to do. “So you go back to that younger version of yourself, so hopefully that will free some of the older guys up a little bit.” Du Plessis’ statements today will draw mixed responses from fans of South Africa, but underneath what he says lies a refreshing positivity. Whether it remains positive is an aspect of this team that is sure to draw a lot of attention. South Africa may be under the radar so far, but it won’t be the case from May 30. (This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the original article)

Cricket World Cup 2019: There's a lot more bigger things than winning and losing cricket games, says Faf du Plessis

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis admitted his team were comprehensively outplayed by England in their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-south-africa-by-104-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-opener-222946">Cricket World Cup opener</a> on Thursday but found plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the tournament.

Hosts England made 311 for eight after being sent into bat by Du Plessis before bowling out the South Africans for 207 to start their campaign with an emphatic 104-run victory at The Oval.

"Today England were better in all three facets of the game," Du Plessis told reporters.

"But it’s a league comp, as disappointed as we were with our performance you have to learn from it and put every single doubt to bed as you have to play cricket again."

South Africa bowled and fielded tightly, restricting England's usually free-scoring batsmen to only three sixes in the innings and a modest 76 runs from the last 10 overs.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/england-vs-south-africa-from-stunning-stokes-to-electric-archer-major-takeaways-from-world-cup-opener-222985" hreflang="en">From stunning Stokes to electric Archer, major takeaways from World Cup opener</a>

Although Jason Roy, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan and Ben Stokes made fifties, none were able to go on to three figures.

"I thought we did a good job with the ball," Du Plessis said. "England bat longer than anyone else so if you can stop them you are doing a great job. As few runs as they got in the last 15 overs – but it was a big score."

South Africa's reply was hampered by an injury to Hashim Amla who was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the helmet by a short ball from fast bowler Jofra Archer.

"The flow of the innings was affected with Hashim coming off, chasing a big score you need a good start, settled partnerships," Du Plessis said.

"Pitch was good enough, Archer bowled well with the new ball, it will take time for international players to get used to his action and that’s why he's such an X-factor bowler – he broke through our opening three."

Du Plessis was pleased with his tactic of opening the bowling with leg-spinner Imran Tahir who dismissed Jonny Bairstow with the second ball of the match to give South Africa a flying start.

"It was something we thought about a year ago," Du Plessis said. "It's something different. My gut said Imran had a big chance of getting a wicket – he's been practising with the new ball for a couple of weeks."

South Africa's next match is against Bangladesh at the same venue on Sunday.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis admitted his team were comprehensively outplayed by England in their Cricket World Cup opener on Thursday but found plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the tournament.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis admitted his team were comprehensively outplayed by England in their Cricket World Cup opener on Thursday but found plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the tournament. Hosts England made 311 for eight after being sent into bat by Du Plessis before bowling out the South Africans for 207 to start their campaign with an emphatic 104-run victory at The Oval. "Today England were better in all three facets of the game," Du Plessis told reporters. "But it’s a league comp, as disappointed as we were with our performance you have to learn from it and put every single doubt to bed as you have to play cricket again." South Africa bowled and fielded tightly, restricting England's usually free-scoring batsmen to only three sixes in the innings and a modest 76 runs from the last 10 overs. In pics: From stunning Stokes to electric Archer, major takeaways from World Cup opener Although Jason Roy, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan and Ben Stokes made fifties, none were able to go on to three figures. "I thought we did a good job with the ball," Du Plessis said. "England bat longer than anyone else so if you can stop them you are doing a great job. As few runs as they got in the last 15 overs – but it was a big score." South Africa's reply was hampered by an injury to Hashim Amla who was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the helmet by a short ball from fast bowler Jofra Archer. "The flow of the innings was affected with Hashim coming off, chasing a big score you need a good start, settled partnerships," Du Plessis said. "Pitch was good enough, Archer bowled well with the new ball, it will take time for international players to get used to his action and that’s why he's such an X-factor bowler – he broke through our opening three." Du Plessis was pleased with his tactic of opening the bowling with leg-spinner Imran Tahir who dismissed Jonny Bairstow with the second ball of the match to give South Africa a flying start. "It was something we thought about a year ago," Du Plessis said. "It's something different. My gut said Imran had a big chance of getting a wicket – he's been practising with the new ball for a couple of weeks." South Africa's next match is against Bangladesh at the same venue on Sunday.

South Africa outplayed but not downbeat, says Faf Du Plessis

Newly-elected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-president-cyril-ramaphosa-vows-to-speed-reforms-after-election-win-219008">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa </a>faces herculean tasks after he gets down to work after Saturday's inauguration.

They include:

Fixing the economy&nbsp;

South Africa has the most advanced infrastructure in the continent, but its commodities-dependent economy has been in a slump for a decade.&nbsp;

It grew by an anaemic 0.8 per cent last year and slipped into a brief recession during the third quarter of 2018. It is projected by the World Bank to expand by 1.3 per cent this year.

Unemployment is running at 27.6 per cent, but among the 20.3 million South Africans aged between 15-34 reaches 55.2 per cent.

In 2017, two of the world's leading ratings agencies S&amp;P Global and Fitch downgraded the country to sub-investment levels.

Ramaphosa, who enjoys support from the business community, has prioritised reform and economic revival. But he faces resistance from within his own party.

Addressing inequalities&nbsp;

With a population of 56.7 million people (2017), the country still has "one of the highest inequality rates in the world," the World Bank says.

The gulf between richest and poorest has widened since the end of apartheid 25 years ago, and skin colour still plays a defining role in job hiring.

Despite the emergence of a black middle class, 20 per cent of black households lives in extreme poverty, against 2.9 per cent for white households, according to the South African Institute of Race Relations.

Between 2011 and 2015, three million more South Africans fell into poverty, according to a World Bank estimate.

Tackling graft&nbsp;

One of the biggest sources of public acrimony is over endemic corruption.

Graft scandals last year forced out Ramaphosa's predecessor, Jacob Zuma, and taint the moral stature of Nelson's Mandela's African National Congress (ANC).

Alleged corruption under Zuma -- known as "state capture" -- saw millions of dollars siphoned off through government and state agencies awarding fraudulent contracts to favoured companies in return for bribes.

Zuma himself is facing trial for alleged corruption relating to a multi-billion-dollar arms deal in the 1990s.

Ramaphosa in February announced he would set up a special tribunal of seven senior judges for "fast-tracking" recovery of proceeds from corruption cases.

&nbsp;Fighting crime&nbsp;

South Africa has a notorious reputation for crime. Last year, 19,000 people were murdered -- 52 per day, according to official figures.

Women are especially vulnerable. Around 100 rapes are recorded each day and a woman dies from domestic violence roughly every eight hours.

The country's crisis of gender-based violence gained worldwide prominence in March after pop-star Babes Wodumo broadcast live images of her apparently being assaulted by her lover.

Violence and theft have spawned a lucrative home-security industry.

Wealthy people live in fortified homes with high walls topped with electrical wires, CCTV monitoring and armed guards.

&nbsp;Land reform&nbsp;

Ramaphosa faces a high-wire act in pushing ahead with his vow to speed up reforms of land, which remains overwhelmingly in the hands of the white minority.

He has to balance pressure from the ANC's left and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) for expropriation with the need to avoid Zimbabwean-style evictions that would be economically ruinous.

"The land reform process is something we should never fear. It is going to be done in terms of the constitution," he told farmers in April.

South Africa's post-apartheid constitution prohibits the "arbitrary deprivation of property" and limits expropriation to cases in the public interest, for which landholders should be given "just and equitable compensation."

"Ramaphosa will have to make some very hard decisions on this matter," political analyst Daniel Silke says.

"He is going to have to choose whether he wants to be investor-friendly or whether he wants the interests of his own political party... to win out."

Newly-elected South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faces herculean tasks after he gets down to work after Saturday's inauguration. They include: Fixing the economy South Africa has the most advanced infrastructure in the continent, but its commodities-dependent economy has been in a slump for a decade.

Newly-elected South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faces herculean tasks after he gets down to work after Saturday's inauguration. They include: Fixing the economy South Africa has the most advanced infrastructure in the continent, but its commodities-dependent economy has been in a slump for a decade. It grew by an anaemic 0.8 per cent last year and slipped into a brief recession during the third quarter of 2018. It is projected by the World Bank to expand by 1.3 per cent this year. Unemployment is running at 27.6 per cent, but among the 20.3 million South Africans aged between 15-34 reaches 55.2 per cent. In 2017, two of the world's leading ratings agencies S&P Global and Fitch downgraded the country to sub-investment levels. Ramaphosa, who enjoys support from the business community, has prioritised reform and economic revival. But he faces resistance from within his own party. Addressing inequalities With a population of 56.7 million people (2017), the country still has "one of the highest inequality rates in the world," the World Bank says. The gulf between richest and poorest has widened since the end of apartheid 25 years ago, and skin colour still plays a defining role in job hiring. Despite the emergence of a black middle class, 20 per cent of black households lives in extreme poverty, against 2.9 per cent for white households, according to the South African Institute of Race Relations. Between 2011 and 2015, three million more South Africans fell into poverty, according to a World Bank estimate. Tackling graft One of the biggest sources of public acrimony is over endemic corruption. Graft scandals last year forced out Ramaphosa's predecessor, Jacob Zuma, and taint the moral stature of Nelson's Mandela's African National Congress (ANC). Alleged corruption under Zuma -- known as "state capture" -- saw millions of dollars siphoned off through government and state agencies awarding fraudulent contracts to favoured companies in return for bribes. Zuma himself is facing trial for alleged corruption relating to a multi-billion-dollar arms deal in the 1990s. Ramaphosa in February announced he would set up a special tribunal of seven senior judges for "fast-tracking" recovery of proceeds from corruption cases. Fighting crime South Africa has a notorious reputation for crime. Last year, 19,000 people were murdered -- 52 per day, according to official figures. Women are especially vulnerable. Around 100 rapes are recorded each day and a woman dies from domestic violence roughly every eight hours. The country's crisis of gender-based violence gained worldwide prominence in March after pop-star Babes Wodumo broadcast live images of her apparently being assaulted by her lover. Violence and theft have spawned a lucrative home-security industry. Wealthy people live in fortified homes with high walls topped with electrical wires, CCTV monitoring and armed guards. Land reform Ramaphosa faces a high-wire act in pushing ahead with his vow to speed up reforms of land, which remains overwhelmingly in the hands of the white minority. He has to balance pressure from the ANC's left and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) for expropriation with the need to avoid Zimbabwean-style evictions that would be economically ruinous. "The land reform process is something we should never fear. It is going to be done in terms of the constitution," he told farmers in April. South Africa's post-apartheid constitution prohibits the "arbitrary deprivation of property" and limits expropriation to cases in the public interest, for which landholders should be given "just and equitable compensation." "Ramaphosa will have to make some very hard decisions on this matter," political analyst Daniel Silke says. "He is going to have to choose whether he wants to be investor-friendly or whether he wants the interests of his own political party... to win out."

South Africa: The five labours of Cyril Ramaphosa

Time away from the game has made him "hungrier than ever before" says <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-can-end-world-cup-agony-dale-steyn-211431&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiO6tHGu7HiAhUJQI8KHStPCfM4FBAWMAJ6BAgPEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw1XL83XwwSpJxkWy0BERlt3">South Africa</a> batsman Hashim Amla, gearing up for his third World Cup.

With more than 18,000 international runs under his belt, Amla was once a batting mainstay for Proteas but <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/off-form-hashim-amla-makes-south-africa-world-cup-squad-211566&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiO6tHGu7HiAhUJQI8KHStPCfM4FBAWMAR6BAgDEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw13mMusYMc70r1VsNMD6xuP">lost his place in the team due to a dip in form</a>.

He missed the ODI series against Sri Lanka earlier this year, with Aiden Markram taking his place as an opener alongside vice-captain Quinton de Kock in the series.

Amla was also missing in action at the IPL and he says the long break helped him to sharpen his game.

"Things happen that you don't anticipate and I did not anticipate how things have gone recently. But I am a firm believer that when something happens, there is some good in it. I have had time away and now I am really looking back to wearing the green and gold again," Amla was quoted as saying by the ICC.

"I am hungrier than ever before, there is no doubt about that. I have been blessed to have this shirt for a while but the time off has made me want to come back stronger.

"This is my third (World Cup) so I know what it is all about. I have a strong record in England and I have always enjoyed coming here", Amla said.

The 36-year-old has already featured in two World Cups for South Africa but New Zealand ended their run in both the editions -- quarter-finals in 2011 and semi-finals four years ago.

South Africa will open their campaign against World No. 1 England, a side tipped to win the World Cup, and Amla believes the underdog status will suit South Africa.

"It is the best first game we could have asked for. We have played England recently and had some success against them, I have done well against them too," he said.

"This year, you don't see the same big names and that is why the focus is not on us but that has some good in it. There has not been much chat about us winning in comparison to the past but I don't think that played a part in how we performed.

"At the end of the day, we always gave our best and played to win. The fact there has not been a lot of chat at this World Cup means there is less expectation but in the team, we think we can do well", Amla said.

Time away from the game has made him "hungrier than ever before" says South Africa batsman Hashim Amla, gearing up for his third World Cup. With more than 18,000 international runs under his belt, Amla was once a batting mainstay for Proteas but lost his place in the team due to a dip in form.

Time away from the game has made him "hungrier than ever before" says South Africa batsman Hashim Amla, gearing up for his third World Cup. With more than 18,000 international runs under his belt, Amla was once a batting mainstay for Proteas but lost his place in the team due to a dip in form. He missed the ODI series against Sri Lanka earlier this year, with Aiden Markram taking his place as an opener alongside vice-captain Quinton de Kock in the series. Amla was also missing in action at the IPL and he says the long break helped him to sharpen his game. "Things happen that you don't anticipate and I did not anticipate how things have gone recently. But I am a firm believer that when something happens, there is some good in it. I have had time away and now I am really looking back to wearing the green and gold again," Amla was quoted as saying by the ICC. "I am hungrier than ever before, there is no doubt about that. I have been blessed to have this shirt for a while but the time off has made me want to come back stronger. "This is my third (World Cup) so I know what it is all about. I have a strong record in England and I have always enjoyed coming here", Amla said. The 36-year-old has already featured in two World Cups for South Africa but New Zealand ended their run in both the editions -- quarter-finals in 2011 and semi-finals four years ago. South Africa will open their campaign against World No. 1 England, a side tipped to win the World Cup, and Amla believes the underdog status will suit South Africa. "It is the best first game we could have asked for. We have played England recently and had some success against them, I have done well against them too," he said. "This year, you don't see the same big names and that is why the focus is not on us but that has some good in it. There has not been much chat about us winning in comparison to the past but I don't think that played a part in how we performed. "At the end of the day, we always gave our best and played to win. The fact there has not been a lot of chat at this World Cup means there is less expectation but in the team, we think we can do well", Amla said.

South Africa's Hashim Amla is 'hungrier than ever before' ahead of World Cup 2019

Cricket, a game of bat-and-ball played between two teams of eleven players on a field with plenty of guidelines and rules, requires sheer hard work. In spite of that, luck plays an important role.&nbsp;

Australia have been the most successful team in World Cup history after winning it five times but there have been teams which were down on their luck.&nbsp;

Pakistan, South Africa and England have been unlucky in their World Cup outings but in the upcoming tournament, all three will be looking to somehow beat the jinx associated with them.&nbsp;

Pakistan's jinx in Indo-Pak rivalry...

The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most celebrated rivalries in cricket and the fans go beyond all the boundaries to support their respective teams and when it comes to the bigger stage, the World Cup, the madness increases.&nbsp;

Since 1992, India and Pakistan have locked horns for a total of six times in Cricket World Cup but Pakistan have never defeated India.&nbsp;

However, Pakistan veteran Moin Khan believes this is going to end at this World Cup.&nbsp;

"This present team is very capable of recording a first win over India in a World Cup because there is talent, there are depth and variety and Sarfaraz Ahmed has now gelled the squad well," Moin said.&nbsp;

"I say this because our boys beat them (India) in the Champions Trophy two years back and I just feel that in English conditions in June we have better bowlers," Moin added.

In the upcoming World Cup, India and Pakistan will play again on June 16 at the Old Trafford.&nbsp;

South Africa and the World Cup pressure!

When it comes to the South African team's run at mega tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup, history has proven how inconsistent they have been when it comes to handling the pressure.&nbsp;

The last time the Proteas had managed to win any big tournament was way back in 1998 when South Africa lifted the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy.&nbsp;

However, the South African paceman Dale Steyn is confident that his side can end their Cricket World Cup jinx and get to the final in this edition. 
&nbsp; 
"If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players. We just need to go there and hope (for) a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament", &nbsp;said Steyn.

Will England lift the World Cup trophy?

England, boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game and will undoubtedly start the tournament as favourites.&nbsp;

England have never won a men's World Cup, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992.

A limp first-round departure at the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand was the catalyst for a transformation in England's white-ball game based on aggressive batting, as exemplified by the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Jos Buttler.

England are now even threatening to smash the 500-run barrier for the first time in an ODI innings, having set a new record total of 481 for six against Australia in Nottingham last year.&nbsp;

England have hosted the World Cup four times previously, and this will be the fifth Cup to be hosted by them.&nbsp;

Their best performances were in 1979, 1987 and 1992 when they ended up being the runner-ups. &nbsp;

Former captain Alastair Cook believes England have an "outstanding chance" to lift the World Cup on home soil.&nbsp;

"There are match winners throughout the squad, there are batsmen that can win games on their own, and over the last six or eight months the bowling has really come on. I think they are going to win it", Cook said.

Cricket, a game of bat-and-ball played between two teams of eleven players on a field with plenty of guidelines and rules, requires sheer hard work. In spite of that, luck plays an important role.

Cricket, a game of bat-and-ball played between two teams of eleven players on a field with plenty of guidelines and rules, requires sheer hard work. In spite of that, luck plays an important role. Australia have been the most successful team in World Cup history after winning it five times but there have been teams which were down on their luck. Pakistan, South Africa and England have been unlucky in their World Cup outings but in the upcoming tournament, all three will be looking to somehow beat the jinx associated with them. Pakistan's jinx in Indo-Pak rivalry... The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most celebrated rivalries in cricket and the fans go beyond all the boundaries to support their respective teams and when it comes to the bigger stage, the World Cup, the madness increases. Since 1992, India and Pakistan have locked horns for a total of six times in Cricket World Cup but Pakistan have never defeated India. However, Pakistan veteran Moin Khan believes this is going to end at this World Cup. "This present team is very capable of recording a first win over India in a World Cup because there is talent, there are depth and variety and Sarfaraz Ahmed has now gelled the squad well," Moin said. "I say this because our boys beat them (India) in the Champions Trophy two years back and I just feel that in English conditions in June we have better bowlers," Moin added. In the upcoming World Cup, India and Pakistan will play again on June 16 at the Old Trafford. South Africa and the World Cup pressure! When it comes to the South African team's run at mega tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup, history has proven how inconsistent they have been when it comes to handling the pressure. The last time the Proteas had managed to win any big tournament was way back in 1998 when South Africa lifted the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy. However, the South African paceman Dale Steyn is confident that his side can end their Cricket World Cup jinx and get to the final in this edition. "If you're not going to the World Cup expecting to win, then you probably shouldn't go. But I'm not going to lie, we have some fantastic players. We just need to go there and hope (for) a bit of luck - weather, a missed no-ball - goes your way, and you could win the tournament", said Steyn. Will England lift the World Cup trophy? England, boasting a plethora of big-hitting white-ball specialists, are the top-ranked team in the 50-over game and will undoubtedly start the tournament as favourites. England have never won a men's World Cup, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final coming in 1992. A limp first-round departure at the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand was the catalyst for a transformation in England's white-ball game based on aggressive batting, as exemplified by the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Jos Buttler. England are now even threatening to smash the 500-run barrier for the first time in an ODI innings, having set a new record total of 481 for six against Australia in Nottingham last year. England have hosted the World Cup four times previously, and this will be the fifth Cup to be hosted by them. Their best performances were in 1979, 1987 and 1992 when they ended up being the runner-ups. Former captain Alastair Cook believes England have an "outstanding chance" to lift the World Cup on home soil. "There are match winners throughout the squad, there are batsmen that can win games on their own, and over the last six or eight months the bowling has really come on. I think they are going to win it", Cook said.

Pakistan's World Cup jinx against India & England, South Africa's horror history

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-challenges-opposition-to-prove-if-he-amassed-assets-kept-money-in-foreign-bank-218697">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday congratulated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosas-anc-win-closely-watched-south-africa-poll-with-absolute-majority-217627">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being&nbsp;re-elected</a>, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger.

"Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger," Modi tweeted.

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Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a> on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1128239437836455937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election last week with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts.

The African National Congress (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-election-ramaphosa-celebrates-election-victory-218237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being re-elected, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being re-elected, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger. "Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger," Modi tweeted. Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 14, 2019 × Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election last week with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts. The African National Congress (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote. President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline.

PM Modi congratulates South African President Ramaphosa on being re-elected

Thousands of supporters of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) took to the streets of downtown Johannesburg on Sunday to celebrate victory in last week's election despite a lower share of the vote.

The ANC won 57.5% of the parliamentary vote and retained power in eight of nine provinces in President Cyril Ramaphosa's first poll test since taking power in February 2018.

The result was the ANC's worst performance in a parliamentary vote since the end of white minority rule in 1994 when it swept to power under Nelson Mandela.

But it was at least an improvement on its vote share in local government elections in 2016.

To supporters of Ramaphosa, the victory was an endorsement of his anti-graft agenda after replacing Jacob Zuma.

"Ramaphosa has done the right thing by targeting corruption. It helped us win the election," said Tlaleng Radebe, 45, an ANC member from Soweto township on the outskirts of Johannesburg.

Another ANC member, Themba Shabalala, 39, said he wanted to see Ramaphosa, a union leader turned business tycoon, rid the country of the "scourge of unemployment."

Around 27 per cent of South Africans do not have jobs, according to one definition of unemployment.

Ramaphosa promises growth

Radebe and Shabalala were part of a crowd of several thousand wearing the ANC colours of black, green and gold outside the party's headquarters, Luthuli House.

Music blared from speakers and people waved party flags before Ramaphosa and other officials addressed them.

"This election was a most decisive election for us. We have learned our lessons, we have heard the people of South Africa," Ramaphosa, 66, told the crowd to cheers.

"We are going to make sure we inject growth into our economy, we are going to invite investors to come and invest, we are going to make sure we give the young people of our country great opportunities," he added.

Ramaphosa's first full term as president should start later this month after his nomination by ANC lawmakers in the new parliament.

He replaced Zuma as ANC leader in December 2017, after a decade in which the party's image was tarnished by corruption scandals and weak economic growth. He became head of state after persuading senior ANC officials to instruct Zuma to resign before Zuma's presidential term was due to end.

Some analysts think last week's election result will leave Ramaphosa short of ammunition to battle party rivals who oppose his reforms to tackle corruption and galvanise the economy.

Others say he did well to win a narrow majority in Gauteng province, the country's economic hub where Johannesburg is located and where the ANC was under pressure.

"Gauteng was our biggest challenge," Ramaphosa said. "It does not matter how you get there, as long as you get there."

Acknowledging that turnout at the election was lower than previous votes at around 65 per cent, he urged more people to cast ballots next time.

The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former president Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69% of the vote.

Thousands of supporters of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) took to the streets of downtown Johannesburg on Sunday to celebrate victory in last week's election despite a lower share of the vote.

Thousands of supporters of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) took to the streets of downtown Johannesburg on Sunday to celebrate victory in last week's election despite a lower share of the vote. The ANC won 57.5% of the parliamentary vote and retained power in eight of nine provinces in President Cyril Ramaphosa's first poll test since taking power in February 2018. The result was the ANC's worst performance in a parliamentary vote since the end of white minority rule in 1994 when it swept to power under Nelson Mandela. But it was at least an improvement on its vote share in local government elections in 2016. To supporters of Ramaphosa, the victory was an endorsement of his anti-graft agenda after replacing Jacob Zuma. "Ramaphosa has done the right thing by targeting corruption. It helped us win the election," said Tlaleng Radebe, 45, an ANC member from Soweto township on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Another ANC member, Themba Shabalala, 39, said he wanted to see Ramaphosa, a union leader turned business tycoon, rid the country of the "scourge of unemployment." Around 27 per cent of South Africans do not have jobs, according to one definition of unemployment. Ramaphosa promises growth Radebe and Shabalala were part of a crowd of several thousand wearing the ANC colours of black, green and gold outside the party's headquarters, Luthuli House. Music blared from speakers and people waved party flags before Ramaphosa and other officials addressed them. "This election was a most decisive election for us. We have learned our lessons, we have heard the people of South Africa," Ramaphosa, 66, told the crowd to cheers. "We are going to make sure we inject growth into our economy, we are going to invite investors to come and invest, we are going to make sure we give the young people of our country great opportunities," he added. Ramaphosa's first full term as president should start later this month after his nomination by ANC lawmakers in the new parliament. He replaced Zuma as ANC leader in December 2017, after a decade in which the party's image was tarnished by corruption scandals and weak economic growth. He became head of state after persuading senior ANC officials to instruct Zuma to resign before Zuma's presidential term was due to end. Some analysts think last week's election result will leave Ramaphosa short of ammunition to battle party rivals who oppose his reforms to tackle corruption and galvanise the economy. Others say he did well to win a narrow majority in Gauteng province, the country's economic hub where Johannesburg is located and where the ANC was under pressure. "Gauteng was our biggest challenge," Ramaphosa said. "It does not matter how you get there, as long as you get there." Acknowledging that turnout at the election was lower than previous votes at around 65 per cent, he urged more people to cast ballots next time. The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former president Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69% of the vote.

South Africa's ANC celebrates election win with street party

Boosting South African growth and overhauling bloated power firm Eskom are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-anc-celebrates-election-win-with-street-party-218233">post-election priorities for the African National Congress</a>, but a reduced majority may force <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosas-anc-win-closely-watched-south-africa-poll-with-absolute-majority-217627">President Cyril Ramaphosa</a> to compromise on those and other economic reforms.

Ramaphosa took office in February 2018 with a pledge to revive a sclerotic economy and attract foreign investors.

But as he prepares for his first full five-year term after the ANC last week saw its share of the national election vote fall below 60% for the first time, the country's structural problems remain acute.

The rand hit a more than two-week high on Friday when the ANC's parliamentary majority became unassailable, but on Monday the currency retreated and government bond yields rose as outside factors - notably the impact on emerging markets of the US-China trade war - gave investors pause.

"It now all hinges on (Ramaphosa) quickly presenting a political agenda and initiating the urgently required reforms once he has formed a government," Commerzbank analysts Ulrich Leuchtmann and Elisabeth Andreae wrote in a note on Monday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-election-ramaphosa-celebrates-election-victory-218237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"...The country's problems are complex and the new government is facing a Herculean task."

As well as speeding up reforms of Eskom and other state-owned entities, Ramaphosa's long to-do list following his inauguration on May 25 will include generating jobs, acting against entrenched corruption in and outside the ANC and resolving policy uncertainty in the mining sector.

On Sunday, he promised a new approach.

"We are going to do things differently, we are going to do things effectively. We are going to make sure we inject growth ... we are going to invite investors," he told ANC supporters at a celebration rally.

Bloated cabinet

But facing party rivals who oppose his reforms, Ramaphosa has struggled to do exactly that since he succeeded scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma last year.

An early barometer of his ability to push through change more efficiently this time will be whether he manages to trim a cabinet comprising more than 30 ministers and deputies, analysts said.

His sympathisers in the ANC are hopeful.

"The cabinet is bloated, and that is not correct when we live in the harshest conditions in the economy. We will cut down the size of the cabinet, that will definitely happen," Fikile Mbalula, a member of the ANC executive, said on Friday.

The economy grew an estimated 0.8 per cent in 2018 after recovering from recession. Growth is forecast at 1.5 per cent this year, and one factor in hitting that target will be how the government manages Eskom's restructuring.

The utility faces generation capacity constraints and South Africa has been plagued by power cuts in the past year, undermining broader efforts to kick-start growth.

Also battling to preserve Pretoria's last investment-grade credit rating, Ramaphosa has pledged to restructure Eskom with a 23 billion rand ($1.62 billion) a year bailout over the next three years.

"Reforming Eskom will definitely gain momentum. That is something which government is serious about," Enoch Godongwana, head of the ANC's economic transformation sub-committee, said on Friday.

Eskom is one of the firms caught up in what has been termed "state capture" - widespread corruption involving billions of rand in government contracts.

Standard Chartered chief Africa economist Razia Khan said holding accountable those implicated in state graft was one of the most pressing issues for Ramaphosa.

"Although not an economic policy issue, action on state capture might provide the much-needed lift to investor and consumer confidence," she said.

Outside influences

Foreign investor interest in South Africa has waned since Ramaphosa took office, with non-domestic ownership of government bonds dipping to 39% at end-April 2019 from a peak of nearly 43% in March 2018.

Godongwana said the ANC was putting "confidence-building measures" in place, but warned against setting expectations too high.

"Economic growth is not something that you can declare. There are lots of puzzles. There is the global aspect which you don't have control over and investment decisions by third parties," he said.

But as well as luring back foreign investors, Ramaphosa will also need to strike a balance between stimulating the economy and quelling simmering discontent, notably via land reform, among the black majority over lingering wealth disparities.

The latter has arguably become more acute with the strong election showing of the far-left EFF party, which champions the rights of landless blacks. It won 44 seats and saw its share of the vote rise to 10.8%.

"High inequality and the rise of the EFF could prepare the ground for more populist economic policies," said rating agency Fitch said.

It acknowledged tensions between the government objectives of addressing inequality and accelerating GDP, but said it expected no significant negative impact from this on growth or budget metrics.

Sergey Dergachev, a senior portfolio manager at Germany-based Union Investment, meanwhile remains "underweight" South Africa.

"The underlying structural problems are still tough to tackle," he said. "...Even with a new mandate, it'll be very difficult to get South Africa back on a growth trend again."

Boosting South African growth and overhauling bloated power firm Eskom are post-election priorities for the African National Congress, but a reduced majority may force President Cyril Ramaphosa to compromise on those and other economic reforms.

Boosting South African growth and overhauling bloated power firm Eskom are post-election priorities for the African National Congress, but a reduced majority may force President Cyril Ramaphosa to compromise on those and other economic reforms. Ramaphosa took office in February 2018 with a pledge to revive a sclerotic economy and attract foreign investors. But as he prepares for his first full five-year term after the ANC last week saw its share of the national election vote fall below 60% for the first time, the country's structural problems remain acute. The rand hit a more than two-week high on Friday when the ANC's parliamentary majority became unassailable, but on Monday the currency retreated and government bond yields rose as outside factors - notably the impact on emerging markets of the US-China trade war - gave investors pause. "It now all hinges on (Ramaphosa) quickly presenting a political agenda and initiating the urgently required reforms once he has formed a government," Commerzbank analysts Ulrich Leuchtmann and Elisabeth Andreae wrote in a note on Monday. "...The country's problems are complex and the new government is facing a Herculean task." As well as speeding up reforms of Eskom and other state-owned entities, Ramaphosa's long to-do list following his inauguration on May 25 will include generating jobs, acting against entrenched corruption in and outside the ANC and resolving policy uncertainty in the mining sector. On Sunday, he promised a new approach. "We are going to do things differently, we are going to do things effectively. We are going to make sure we inject growth ... we are going to invite investors," he told ANC supporters at a celebration rally. Bloated cabinet But facing party rivals who oppose his reforms, Ramaphosa has struggled to do exactly that since he succeeded scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma last year. An early barometer of his ability to push through change more efficiently this time will be whether he manages to trim a cabinet comprising more than 30 ministers and deputies, analysts said. His sympathisers in the ANC are hopeful. "The cabinet is bloated, and that is not correct when we live in the harshest conditions in the economy. We will cut down the size of the cabinet, that will definitely happen," Fikile Mbalula, a member of the ANC executive, said on Friday. The economy grew an estimated 0.8 per cent in 2018 after recovering from recession. Growth is forecast at 1.5 per cent this year, and one factor in hitting that target will be how the government manages Eskom's restructuring. The utility faces generation capacity constraints and South Africa has been plagued by power cuts in the past year, undermining broader efforts to kick-start growth. Also battling to preserve Pretoria's last investment-grade credit rating, Ramaphosa has pledged to restructure Eskom with a 23 billion rand ($1.62 billion) a year bailout over the next three years. "Reforming Eskom will definitely gain momentum. That is something which government is serious about," Enoch Godongwana, head of the ANC's economic transformation sub-committee, said on Friday. Eskom is one of the firms caught up in what has been termed "state capture" - widespread corruption involving billions of rand in government contracts. Standard Chartered chief Africa economist Razia Khan said holding accountable those implicated in state graft was one of the most pressing issues for Ramaphosa. "Although not an economic policy issue, action on state capture might provide the much-needed lift to investor and consumer confidence," she said. Outside influences Foreign investor interest in South Africa has waned since Ramaphosa took office, with non-domestic ownership of government bonds dipping to 39% at end-April 2019 from a peak of nearly 43% in March 2018. Godongwana said the ANC was putting "confidence-building measures" in place, but warned against setting expectations too high. "Economic growth is not something that you can declare. There are lots of puzzles. There is the global aspect which you don't have control over and investment decisions by third parties," he said. But as well as luring back foreign investors, Ramaphosa will also need to strike a balance between stimulating the economy and quelling simmering discontent, notably via land reform, among the black majority over lingering wealth disparities. The latter has arguably become more acute with the strong election showing of the far-left EFF party, which champions the rights of landless blacks. It won 44 seats and saw its share of the vote rise to 10.8%. "High inequality and the rise of the EFF could prepare the ground for more populist economic policies," said rating agency Fitch said. It acknowledged tensions between the government objectives of addressing inequality and accelerating GDP, but said it expected no significant negative impact from this on growth or budget metrics. Sergey Dergachev, a senior portfolio manager at Germany-based Union Investment, meanwhile remains "underweight" South Africa. "The underlying structural problems are still tough to tackle," he said. "...Even with a new mandate, it'll be very difficult to get South Africa back on a growth trend again."

South Africa: Ramaphosa's economic reforms in focus as ANC adjusts to smaller majority

The African National Congress (ANC) was headed toward victory in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-struggling-25-years-after-apartheid-216887">South Africa</a>`s election on Friday, partial results showed, though the party was on course for its worst performance in a national poll in its 25 years in government.&nbsp;

As of 0010 GMT, ballots in 72 per cent of 22,925 voting districts had been counted. The tallies put the ANC on 57 per cent in the parliamentary race, with the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) on 22 per cent and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on 10 per cent.

The former liberation party of Nelson Mandela has not won less than a 60 per cent share of the vote since it swept to power in South Africa`s first all-race election in 1994, marking the end of white minority rule.

Based on the latest results from the Electoral Commission, analysts predicted the ANC was set for a vote share of between 55 per cent and 59 per cent. A poor showing for the ANC would embolden opponents of President Cyril Ramaphosa and risk a potential challenge to his leadership, analysts have said. 
"The ANC will be elected with a record low of 27 per cent of the eligible population backing them, compared with 47 per cent in 1999. This kind of dynamic is not a mandate nor an impetus to change," said Peter Attard Montalto, head of capital markets research at Intellidex.&nbsp;

"WILLING TO FORGIVE"&nbsp;

In the first national test at the ballot box for Ramaphosa, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-party-leaders-battle-it-out-in-south-africa-election-216891">South Africans</a> voted on Wednesday for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures. They had expressed frustration at rampant corruption, high unemployment and racial inequalities that remain deeply entrenched.

Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for Africa`s oldest liberation movement, whose tenure in the last decade was punctuated by corruption scandals, a stagnant economy and high unemployment.

"People have shown they are willing to forgive the ANC," said Ronald Lamola, a member of the ANC`s top governing body. "We are looking at a clear mandate for our policies."&nbsp;

With promises to fight graft, improve public services and put people into jobs, Ramaphosa won an internal party leadership election in December 2017, narrowly defeating a faction allied with former head of state Jacob Zuma. Ramaphosa replaced the scandal-plagued Zuma as president of Africa`s most advanced economy three months later.

But his efforts have been constrained by divisions within his own party, where some Zuma supporters still retain influence and oppose his agenda.&nbsp;

The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former President Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69 per cent of the vote. But its support fell under Zuma, and it lost control of big cities like Johannesburg, the commercial capital, in local government elections in 2016.

Election officials said voting, in general, had progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated disruptions caused by bad weather, unscheduled power outages or community protests.

The African National Congress (ANC) was headed toward victory in South Africa`s election on Friday, partial results showed, though the party was on course for its worst performance in a national poll in its 25 years in government.

The African National Congress (ANC) was headed toward victory in South Africa`s election on Friday, partial results showed, though the party was on course for its worst performance in a national poll in its 25 years in government. As of 0010 GMT, ballots in 72 per cent of 22,925 voting districts had been counted. The tallies put the ANC on 57 per cent in the parliamentary race, with the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) on 22 per cent and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on 10 per cent. The former liberation party of Nelson Mandela has not won less than a 60 per cent share of the vote since it swept to power in South Africa`s first all-race election in 1994, marking the end of white minority rule. Based on the latest results from the Electoral Commission, analysts predicted the ANC was set for a vote share of between 55 per cent and 59 per cent. A poor showing for the ANC would embolden opponents of President Cyril Ramaphosa and risk a potential challenge to his leadership, analysts have said. "The ANC will be elected with a record low of 27 per cent of the eligible population backing them, compared with 47 per cent in 1999. This kind of dynamic is not a mandate nor an impetus to change," said Peter Attard Montalto, head of capital markets research at Intellidex. "WILLING TO FORGIVE" In the first national test at the ballot box for Ramaphosa, South Africans voted on Wednesday for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures. They had expressed frustration at rampant corruption, high unemployment and racial inequalities that remain deeply entrenched. Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for Africa`s oldest liberation movement, whose tenure in the last decade was punctuated by corruption scandals, a stagnant economy and high unemployment. "People have shown they are willing to forgive the ANC," said Ronald Lamola, a member of the ANC`s top governing body. "We are looking at a clear mandate for our policies." With promises to fight graft, improve public services and put people into jobs, Ramaphosa won an internal party leadership election in December 2017, narrowly defeating a faction allied with former head of state Jacob Zuma. Ramaphosa replaced the scandal-plagued Zuma as president of Africa`s most advanced economy three months later. But his efforts have been constrained by divisions within his own party, where some Zuma supporters still retain influence and oppose his agenda. The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former President Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69 per cent of the vote. But its support fell under Zuma, and it lost control of big cities like Johannesburg, the commercial capital, in local government elections in 2016. Election officials said voting, in general, had progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated disruptions caused by bad weather, unscheduled power outages or community protests.

ANC takes commanding lead in South Africa's election but support recedes

May 10 is not an ordinary date for South Africa, it holds immense historical significance and represents the country's victory over apartheid and racial discrimination.

It was the year 1994 when, on this very day, Nelson Mandela became the first president of South Africa. It was a glorious moment for the majority of the oppressed people of colour.&nbsp;

After years of colonial subjugation and apartheid rule, the black people were finally free. As South Africa slowly inches toward its election result, with parties looking to bolster the country's sluggish economy, Pule Monama, founding member of Azapo (South African political party) and Sello Lediga, political columnist in South Africa speak to WION and share their takes on this historical day. Azapo is a political organization that fought racial discrimination in the country when all other political organizations were banned.

"For some people, it was unbelievable that a black man (Mandela), would be in charge of the services, the army,&nbsp;the air force, the navy, the police and all state entities in this country. It was a proud moment that heralded a new era of democracy. South Africa had changed forever after a protracted and heroic struggle. A new South Africa was born on May 10 1994. A South Africa that offer the community of nations (UN) as a proud and democratic state,"&nbsp;Sello Lediga told WION.

When asked about his hopes on the upcoming elections, he believed that that the citizens of South Africa are pinning their hopes on Cyril Ramaphosa, hoping to see a better picture of South Africa in terms of economy, development and growth.&nbsp;

"After ten years of a corrupt and ruinous rule by ousted president Jacob Zuma, South Africans are pinning their hopes on Cyril Ramaphosa to lead them to a brighter and prosperous future after 25 years of democracy since Mandela became the president. Most South Africans are disappointed with high unemployment, poverty and inequality. They are looking forward to a change from the ruling African National Congress led by Ramaphosa - the same man that Mandela wanted to succeed him in 1999," Sello said.

"South Africa's economy is not growing and most economic plans don't seem to be working. The economy has, for quite some time, been growing at one per cent which is inadequate to deal with the economic and social problems that have developed here," Lediga added.&nbsp;

Despite winning over racial discrimination and oppression, there still lies a belief that white is more superior, hence self-hate persists in many parts of the country.&nbsp;

"For oppressed people that survived more than 300 years of colonialism and apartheid, self-hate is inevitable. Some still believe that white is superior and beautiful. However, the majority is mentally and psychologically liberated. They now seek economic freedom to augment political power. Apartheid officially died in 1994 after the first democratic elections here. However, there are white people who still show racist tendencies but are too few to worry the nation," said Lediga.

He said that Xenophobia and Afrophobia do raise their ugly heads occasionally as South Africa is flooded by refugees seeking opportunities because of their collapsed economies.&nbsp;

While the majority in South Africa sees the day as historical, there are also those who cannot get along the fact that much change has been made with Mandela's ideologies.&nbsp;

"Not all of us are in the Liberation Movement, particularly those who come from the Black Consciousness Movement do not agree with everything Nelson Mandela stood for. They did not agree with the overall negotiation framework and believed he was giving more than he got for the majority of our people. Hence, 25 years after the liberation, we have little to show for it. Our people still lack quality education, the health system is collapsing, industrial and economic development is slow. However, we do recognize his contribution to the broader liberation of our country,"&nbsp;Pule Monama stated.

May 10 is not an ordinary date for South Africa, it holds immense historical significance and represents the country's victory over apartheid and racial discrimination.

May 10 is not an ordinary date for South Africa, it holds immense historical significance and represents the country's victory over apartheid and racial discrimination. It was the year 1994 when, on this very day, Nelson Mandela became the first president of South Africa. It was a glorious moment for the majority of the oppressed people of colour. After years of colonial subjugation and apartheid rule, the black people were finally free. As South Africa slowly inches toward its election result, with parties looking to bolster the country's sluggish economy, Pule Monama, founding member of Azapo (South African political party) and Sello Lediga, political columnist in South Africa speak to WION and share their takes on this historical day. Azapo is a political organization that fought racial discrimination in the country when all other political organizations were banned. "For some people, it was unbelievable that a black man (Mandela), would be in charge of the services, the army, the air force, the navy, the police and all state entities in this country. It was a proud moment that heralded a new era of democracy. South Africa had changed forever after a protracted and heroic struggle. A new South Africa was born on May 10 1994. A South Africa that offer the community of nations (UN) as a proud and democratic state," Sello Lediga told WION. When asked about his hopes on the upcoming elections, he believed that that the citizens of South Africa are pinning their hopes on Cyril Ramaphosa, hoping to see a better picture of South Africa in terms of economy, development and growth. "After ten years of a corrupt and ruinous rule by ousted president Jacob Zuma, South Africans are pinning their hopes on Cyril Ramaphosa to lead them to a brighter and prosperous future after 25 years of democracy since Mandela became the president. Most South Africans are disappointed with high unemployment, poverty and inequality. They are looking forward to a change from the ruling African National Congress led by Ramaphosa - the same man that Mandela wanted to succeed him in 1999," Sello said. "South Africa's economy is not growing and most economic plans don't seem to be working. The economy has, for quite some time, been growing at one per cent which is inadequate to deal with the economic and social problems that have developed here," Lediga added. Despite winning over racial discrimination and oppression, there still lies a belief that white is more superior, hence self-hate persists in many parts of the country. "For oppressed people that survived more than 300 years of colonialism and apartheid, self-hate is inevitable. Some still believe that white is superior and beautiful. However, the majority is mentally and psychologically liberated. They now seek economic freedom to augment political power. Apartheid officially died in 1994 after the first democratic elections here. However, there are white people who still show racist tendencies but are too few to worry the nation," said Lediga. He said that Xenophobia and Afrophobia do raise their ugly heads occasionally as South Africa is flooded by refugees seeking opportunities because of their collapsed economies. While the majority in South Africa sees the day as historical, there are also those who cannot get along the fact that much change has been made with Mandela's ideologies. "Not all of us are in the Liberation Movement, particularly those who come from the Black Consciousness Movement do not agree with everything Nelson Mandela stood for. They did not agree with the overall negotiation framework and believed he was giving more than he got for the majority of our people. Hence, 25 years after the liberation, we have little to show for it. Our people still lack quality education, the health system is collapsing, industrial and economic development is slow. However, we do recognize his contribution to the broader liberation of our country," Pule Monama stated.

Significance of May 10 in South Africa: When democracy trumped racial discrimination 

South African elections officials counted ballot papers in the early hours of Thursday, a day after a vote seen as the toughest test yet for the African National Congress (ANC) party <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-struggling-25-years-after-apartheid-216887">25 years after it swept to power</a> at the end of white minority rule.

The elections for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures are the first barometer of national sentiment since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-elections-corruption-jobs-top-issues-as-cyril-ramaphosas-anc-faces-tough-battle-216078">President Cyril Ramaphosa </a>replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-party-leaders-battle-it-out-in-south-africa-election-216891">Three party leaders battle it out in South Africa election</a>

Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for the ANC, which has won every parliamentary vote since the end of apartheid in 1994 but whose image has been tarnished by corruption scandals and a weak economy in the past decade.

Opinion polls suggest the ANC will again win a majority of the parliament`s 400 seats, but analysts say its margin of victory may fall amid frustration with slow progress addressing racial disparities in income and wealth.

Most polling stations closed around 1900 GMT on Wednesday.

Results from some stations will start to trickle in on Thursday morning, but a final tally could only be ready by Saturday.

Elections officials said voting had in general progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated incidents where bad weather, power outages or community protests had caused disruptions. The electoral commission said it was investigating two potential instances of double-voting.

"The Electoral Commission will not allow the potential misconduct of one or two individuals to taint the overall outcome of these elections," the commission said in a statement.

The ANC`s biggest challengers at the elections are the main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

The ANC won 62 per cent of the vote at the last parliamentary election in 2014, far short of its best result, 69 per cent in 2004 under President Thabo Mbeki. 
It currently controls eight of the country`s nine provinces, with the DA in power in the Western Cape.

Ramaphosa, who became ANC leader in December 2017 after narrowly defeating a faction allied with Zuma, has promised to improve poor public services, create jobs and fight corruption.

South African elections officials counted ballot papers in the early hours of Thursday, a day after a vote seen as the toughest test yet for the African National Congress (ANC) party 25 years after it swept to power at the end of white minority rule.

South African elections officials counted ballot papers in the early hours of Thursday, a day after a vote seen as the toughest test yet for the African National Congress (ANC) party 25 years after it swept to power at the end of white minority rule. The elections for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures are the first barometer of national sentiment since President Cyril Ramaphosa replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018. Also read: Three party leaders battle it out in South Africa election Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for the ANC, which has won every parliamentary vote since the end of apartheid in 1994 but whose image has been tarnished by corruption scandals and a weak economy in the past decade. Opinion polls suggest the ANC will again win a majority of the parliament`s 400 seats, but analysts say its margin of victory may fall amid frustration with slow progress addressing racial disparities in income and wealth. Most polling stations closed around 1900 GMT on Wednesday. Results from some stations will start to trickle in on Thursday morning, but a final tally could only be ready by Saturday. Elections officials said voting had in general progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated incidents where bad weather, power outages or community protests had caused disruptions. The electoral commission said it was investigating two potential instances of double-voting. "The Electoral Commission will not allow the potential misconduct of one or two individuals to taint the overall outcome of these elections," the commission said in a statement. The ANC`s biggest challengers at the elections are the main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). The ANC won 62 per cent of the vote at the last parliamentary election in 2014, far short of its best result, 69 per cent in 2004 under President Thabo Mbeki. It currently controls eight of the country`s nine provinces, with the DA in power in the Western Cape. Ramaphosa, who became ANC leader in December 2017 after narrowly defeating a faction allied with Zuma, has promised to improve poor public services, create jobs and fight corruption.

South Africa counts votes as Ramaphosa's ANC looks to retain power

South Africa <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africans-head-to-polls-tipped-to-be-won-by-anc-216888">goes to the polls </a>Wednesday with the leaders of the three main parties vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-struggling-25-years-after-apartheid-216887">ANC's long-held dominance</a>.

Here is a look at the three:

- The shrewd president -

Cyril Ramaphosa, the leader of the ruling ANC party, took the country's reins last year after a dramatic and varied career intertwined with the birth of modern South Africa.

He was a pioneering young trade union leader, an anti-apartheid activist, and a Nelson Mandela protege who led talks to end white-minority rule and helped write the new constitution.

When Mandela walked out of jail in 1990, Ramaphosa was standing beside him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">South Africa election facts and voting procedures</a>

But after missing out on becoming Mandela's successor as president, Ramaphosa instead became a hugely wealthy businessman through stakes in McDonalds, Coca-Cola, mining and telecommunications, and developing a taste for breeding rare cattle.

In 2012, his image was badly tarnished when police killed 34 striking workers at the Marikana platinum mine, operated by London-listed Lonmin, where he was then a non-executive director.

Ramaphosa had called for a crackdown on the strikers, whom he accused of "dastardly criminal" behaviour.

He returned to politics to become Jacob Zuma's vice president in 2014, often drawing criticism for failing to speak out against corruption and government mismanagement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/25-years-after-apartheid-south-africans-still-not-free-president-213961">25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President</a>

Renowned for his patience and strategic thinking, Ramaphosa narrowly beat off pro-Zuma rivals to take over the leadership of the ANC in 2017 and then claim the presidency when Zuma was forced out last year.

Ramaphosa's support base crosses South Africa's racial and class divides, but he still faces strong opposition from factions within the ANC.

"This is a decisive moment in our country, in the history of South Africa, this is a moment when... we choose hope over despair," he told supporters at the ANC's final campaign rally.

Born in Johannesburg's Soweto township, Ramaphosa took up activism while studying law in the 1970s, and spent 11 months in solitary confinement in 1974.

The young opposition leader&nbsp;

Mmusi Maimane, 38, is the first black leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's main opposition party.

Raised in Soweto -- the heartland of the anti-apartheid struggle -- Maimane only joined the DA in 2009 and was fast-tracked through its ranks to take control in 2015.

His rapid promotion led to accusations that he was being used by the party's senior white activists to cover up a lack of reform within the party.

A gifted orator and smooth campaigner, he has kept the DA in the spotlight, broadened its appeal and held together its warring factions.

But he has struggled to land punches on Ramaphosa or to convince many black middle-class voters that the DA is not still a "white" party.

A devout Christian, he has a masters degree in Theology and regularly preaches at church, where he met his white wife Natalie.

Before getting into politics, Maimane ran his own management consultancy and lectured at a business school in Johannesburg.

His reserved leadership style could come under question if the DA fails to make significant gains on the 22 percent of the vote it got in the 2014 election.

The radical firebrand

Julius Malema, 38, is a former ANC youth leader who launched the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in 2013 and, against all the odds, has turned it into a political force.

He was kicked out of the ruling party after coming into conflict with the leadership but has thrived as a rebel, delivering fiery speeches spiced with jokes and digs at Ramaphosa, the ANC and South Africa's white minority.

Presenting himself as the voice of the young and unemployed, he demands the seizure of land from whites without compensation, and the nationalisation of mines and banks.

His threat to the ANC was underlined last year when Ramaphosa adopted a tougher stance on land reform to appease a section of the electorate, spooking foreign investors.

Wearing a red beret and styling himself as "commander in chief", Malema hopes to ride a growing wave of discontent among the poorest of South Africans 25 years after the end of apartheid.

During Jacob Zuma's reign as president, he led his lawmakers in a campaign to disrupt parliament by chanting and heckling, before being thrown out by security officers.

His party holds 25 seats in the 400-member parliament.

South Africa goes to the polls Wednesday with the leaders of the three main parties vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance.

South Africa goes to the polls Wednesday with the leaders of the three main parties vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance. Here is a look at the three: - The shrewd president - Cyril Ramaphosa, the leader of the ruling ANC party, took the country's reins last year after a dramatic and varied career intertwined with the birth of modern South Africa. He was a pioneering young trade union leader, an anti-apartheid activist, and a Nelson Mandela protege who led talks to end white-minority rule and helped write the new constitution. When Mandela walked out of jail in 1990, Ramaphosa was standing beside him. Also read: South Africa election facts and voting procedures But after missing out on becoming Mandela's successor as president, Ramaphosa instead became a hugely wealthy businessman through stakes in McDonalds, Coca-Cola, mining and telecommunications, and developing a taste for breeding rare cattle. In 2012, his image was badly tarnished when police killed 34 striking workers at the Marikana platinum mine, operated by London-listed Lonmin, where he was then a non-executive director. Ramaphosa had called for a crackdown on the strikers, whom he accused of "dastardly criminal" behaviour. He returned to politics to become Jacob Zuma's vice president in 2014, often drawing criticism for failing to speak out against corruption and government mismanagement. Also read: 25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President Renowned for his patience and strategic thinking, Ramaphosa narrowly beat off pro-Zuma rivals to take over the leadership of the ANC in 2017 and then claim the presidency when Zuma was forced out last year. Ramaphosa's support base crosses South Africa's racial and class divides, but he still faces strong opposition from factions within the ANC. "This is a decisive moment in our country, in the history of South Africa, this is a moment when... we choose hope over despair," he told supporters at the ANC's final campaign rally. Born in Johannesburg's Soweto township, Ramaphosa took up activism while studying law in the 1970s, and spent 11 months in solitary confinement in 1974. The young opposition leader Mmusi Maimane, 38, is the first black leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's main opposition party. Raised in Soweto -- the heartland of the anti-apartheid struggle -- Maimane only joined the DA in 2009 and was fast-tracked through its ranks to take control in 2015. His rapid promotion led to accusations that he was being used by the party's senior white activists to cover up a lack of reform within the party. A gifted orator and smooth campaigner, he has kept the DA in the spotlight, broadened its appeal and held together its warring factions. But he has struggled to land punches on Ramaphosa or to convince many black middle-class voters that the DA is not still a "white" party. A devout Christian, he has a masters degree in Theology and regularly preaches at church, where he met his white wife Natalie. Before getting into politics, Maimane ran his own management consultancy and lectured at a business school in Johannesburg. His reserved leadership style could come under question if the DA fails to make significant gains on the 22 percent of the vote it got in the 2014 election. The radical firebrand Julius Malema, 38, is a former ANC youth leader who launched the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in 2013 and, against all the odds, has turned it into a political force. He was kicked out of the ruling party after coming into conflict with the leadership but has thrived as a rebel, delivering fiery speeches spiced with jokes and digs at Ramaphosa, the ANC and South Africa's white minority. Presenting himself as the voice of the young and unemployed, he demands the seizure of land from whites without compensation, and the nationalisation of mines and banks. His threat to the ANC was underlined last year when Ramaphosa adopted a tougher stance on land reform to appease a section of the electorate, spooking foreign investors. Wearing a red beret and styling himself as "commander in chief", Malema hopes to ride a growing wave of discontent among the poorest of South Africans 25 years after the end of apartheid. During Jacob Zuma's reign as president, he led his lawmakers in a campaign to disrupt parliament by chanting and heckling, before being thrown out by security officers. His party holds 25 seats in the 400-member parliament.

Three party leaders battle it out in South Africa election

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday in national elections which the ruling ANC party, in power since 1994, is the favourite to win despite corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth and record unemployment.

The ANC has won all the past five elections, but Wednesday's vote is set to be an electoral test on whether the party has staunched a decline in popularity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">South Africa election facts and voting procedures</a>

The party is tipped to win the vote, but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters.

Ramaphosa took over from scandal-tainted Jacob Zuma, under whose leadership the ANC saw the most significant drop in support since 1994.

He acknowledged on the eve of the election that "we are humble enough to admit our mistakes. We have taken decisive steps to fight corruption."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/25-years-after-apartheid-south-africans-still-not-free-president-213961">25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President</a>

The election comes 25 years since Mandela led the African National Congress (ANC) to power in the country's first multi-racial ballot, which marked the globally-celebrated end of apartheid rule.

Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014.

Ramaphosa, 66, took office last year when Zuma was forced to resign as president by the ANC after a nine-year reign dominated by corruption allegations and economic woes.

Most opinion surveys suggest the ANC will secure nearly 60 per cent of the vote on Wednesday, thanks to the Ramaphosa effect and a weak and fragmented opposition.

"The ANC will pull another majority. It might be a reduced majority," said political scientist Collette Schulz-Herzenberg from Stellenbosch University.

"It reflects the weakness of the opposition, more than it does reflect the achievements of the ANC," she added.&nbsp;

Weak opposition

The pro-business moderate Ramaphosa is a former anti-apartheid activist and trade union leader who was Mandela's apparent favourite to succeed him as president.

After being outmanoeuvred in that race, Ramaphosa instead became a wealthy entrepreneur before serving as Zuma's vice president.

The ANC has been confronted by deepening public anger over its failure to tackle poverty and inequality in post-apartheid South Africa.

The economy grew just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and unemployment hovers at a high of nearly 27 per cent, rising over 50 per cent among young people.

Corruption, especially in state owned companies became almost endemic under Zuma.

"In a normal country the ANC should be losing the election on the 8th (of May)," said University of Witwatersrand senior lecturer Lumkile Mondi.

Of the 47 opposition parties in the race, only the main opposition centrist Democratic Alliance (DA) and the radical-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are major players.

The DA which hopes to shed its image as a white, middle-class party as its first black leader, Mmusi Maimane, fights in his first general election since he took the helm in 2015, is expected to make marginal gains from the 22 per cent it won 2014.

But the radical leftist EFF, founded just six years ago by a former ANC youth leader Julius Malema, is predicted to make major inroads, growing from 6.3 per cent to a forecast 11 per cent.

The party, which appeals mainly to young voters and the poor, has centred its election campaign on its policy of seizing land from largely white owners to give to poor blacks.

Enforced land redistribution has also been adopted as a policy by Ramaphosa's government -- alarming some investors.

Wednesday's provincial elections will also measure ANC fortunes, with the party in a close fight with the DA for control of Gauteng, which includes the capital Pretoria and the economic hub Johannesburg.

Some 26.8 million voters are registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations.

Polls open at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and close 14 hours later.

Early results will emerge on Thursday with an official winner declared on Saturday.&nbsp;

The party that wins most seats in parliament selects the president, who will be sworn in on May 25.

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday in national elections which the ruling ANC party, in power since 1994, is the favourite to win despite corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth and record unemployment.

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday in national elections which the ruling ANC party, in power since 1994, is the favourite to win despite corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth and record unemployment. The ANC has won all the past five elections, but Wednesday's vote is set to be an electoral test on whether the party has staunched a decline in popularity. Also read: South Africa election facts and voting procedures The party is tipped to win the vote, but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters. Ramaphosa took over from scandal-tainted Jacob Zuma, under whose leadership the ANC saw the most significant drop in support since 1994. He acknowledged on the eve of the election that "we are humble enough to admit our mistakes. We have taken decisive steps to fight corruption." Also read: 25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President The election comes 25 years since Mandela led the African National Congress (ANC) to power in the country's first multi-racial ballot, which marked the globally-celebrated end of apartheid rule. Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014. Ramaphosa, 66, took office last year when Zuma was forced to resign as president by the ANC after a nine-year reign dominated by corruption allegations and economic woes. Most opinion surveys suggest the ANC will secure nearly 60 per cent of the vote on Wednesday, thanks to the Ramaphosa effect and a weak and fragmented opposition. "The ANC will pull another majority. It might be a reduced majority," said political scientist Collette Schulz-Herzenberg from Stellenbosch University. "It reflects the weakness of the opposition, more than it does reflect the achievements of the ANC," she added. Weak opposition The pro-business moderate Ramaphosa is a former anti-apartheid activist and trade union leader who was Mandela's apparent favourite to succeed him as president. After being outmanoeuvred in that race, Ramaphosa instead became a wealthy entrepreneur before serving as Zuma's vice president. The ANC has been confronted by deepening public anger over its failure to tackle poverty and inequality in post-apartheid South Africa. The economy grew just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and unemployment hovers at a high of nearly 27 per cent, rising over 50 per cent among young people. Corruption, especially in state owned companies became almost endemic under Zuma. "In a normal country the ANC should be losing the election on the 8th (of May)," said University of Witwatersrand senior lecturer Lumkile Mondi. Of the 47 opposition parties in the race, only the main opposition centrist Democratic Alliance (DA) and the radical-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are major players. The DA which hopes to shed its image as a white, middle-class party as its first black leader, Mmusi Maimane, fights in his first general election since he took the helm in 2015, is expected to make marginal gains from the 22 per cent it won 2014. But the radical leftist EFF, founded just six years ago by a former ANC youth leader Julius Malema, is predicted to make major inroads, growing from 6.3 per cent to a forecast 11 per cent. The party, which appeals mainly to young voters and the poor, has centred its election campaign on its policy of seizing land from largely white owners to give to poor blacks. Enforced land redistribution has also been adopted as a policy by Ramaphosa's government -- alarming some investors. Wednesday's provincial elections will also measure ANC fortunes, with the party in a close fight with the DA for control of Gauteng, which includes the capital Pretoria and the economic hub Johannesburg. Some 26.8 million voters are registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations. Polls open at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and close 14 hours later. Early results will emerge on Thursday with an official winner declared on Saturday. The party that wins most seats in parliament selects the president, who will be sworn in on May 25.

South Africans head to polls tipped to be won by ANC

Twenty-five years after the end of white-minority rule, South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world and is held back by corruption and crime.

As the country <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/campaigning-in-south-africa-wraps-up-ahead-of-election-216508">holds elections </a>Wednesday in which the African National Congress (ANC) is all but certain to retain power, here is some background:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">South Africa election facts and voting procedures</a>

Decades of apartheid

The radical race-based system of apartheid that favoured the white minority over the black majority became official government policy in 1948.

It governed all aspects of life, restricting non-whites to unskilled jobs and inferior education, services and living conditions.

Whites controlled politics, the economy and the land.

The system was dismantled nearly five decades later, after a long and bitter struggle, its demise sealed by the April 1994 elections in which blacks were able to vote for the first time.

Mandela

Then <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-elections-corruption-jobs-top-issues-as-cyril-ramaphosas-anc-faces-tough-battle-216078">ANC</a> leader Nelson Mandela, who was jailed for 27 years for his efforts to overthrow apartheid, became South Africa's first black president in 1994.&nbsp;

His release in 1990 heralded the transition to democracy for which he won the Nobel Peace Prize with the last white president, F.W. de Klerk.

Mandela committed to only one term, stepping down in 1999. Internationally respected as an icon of reconciliation, his death in 2013 was met with an outpouring of emotion worldwide.

Later, in-fighting and graft scandals within the ANC peaked in 2018 when Jacob Zuma was forced to step down as president.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/25-years-after-apartheid-south-africans-still-not-free-president-213961">25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President</a>

'Rainbow Nation' tarnished

The optimism of the post-apartheid "Rainbow Nation" has waned amid widespread complaints of weak governance, poor delivery of public services, corruption and crime.&nbsp;

The number of regular houses, as opposed to makeshift shacks, increased by a quarter since 1996, as did access to electricity (61 per cent), according to a Centre for Risk Analysis survey in 2019.

But some 20 per cent of black households are classed as living in extreme poverty compared to 2.9 per cent of white households, the Institute of Race Relations says.

With a population of 56.7 million (2017), the country still has "one of the highest inequality rates in the world," the World Bank says.

Most of South Africa's arable land, meanwhile, remains in the hands of white farmers.

Economic woes

The second-strongest economy in Africa behind Nigeria, South Africa is the world's top producer of platinum and a leading supplier of gold, diamonds and other minerals.&nbsp;

However, mining has shed about 300,000 jobs, now only making up about seven per cent of gross domestic product from a peak of about 20 per cent in the 1980s.

Having seen sharp gains from 1994 to 2006 with annual growth above five per cent, the economy crashed in 2008 at the height of the global financial crisis.&nbsp;

Growth was just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and is projected to be 1.3 per cent for 2019, the World Bank says.

Official unemployment is at 27.1 per cent, reaching 53 per cent for people aged under 35 -- among the highest in the world.

Sunny SA

With unspoiled beaches, vineyards and animal reserves, the country was the continent's leading tourist destination behind Morocco in 2017, according to the UN's tourism authority.

There were more than 10 million visitors in 2017, and the sector contributed 10 per cent to the economy.

The country hosted Africa's first World Cup in 2006 and is also the sole nation on the continent to allow gay marriage.

But crime remains persistently high, the murder rate rising in 2017 to about 57 a day.&nbsp;

South Africa also has the biggest HIV/AIDS epidemic in the world, with 7.1 million people living with HIV, the UN says.

Twenty-five years after the end of white-minority rule, South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world and is held back by corruption and crime.

Twenty-five years after the end of white-minority rule, South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world and is held back by corruption and crime. As the country holds elections Wednesday in which the African National Congress (ANC) is all but certain to retain power, here is some background: Also read: South Africa election facts and voting procedures Decades of apartheid The radical race-based system of apartheid that favoured the white minority over the black majority became official government policy in 1948. It governed all aspects of life, restricting non-whites to unskilled jobs and inferior education, services and living conditions. Whites controlled politics, the economy and the land. The system was dismantled nearly five decades later, after a long and bitter struggle, its demise sealed by the April 1994 elections in which blacks were able to vote for the first time. Mandela Then ANC leader Nelson Mandela, who was jailed for 27 years for his efforts to overthrow apartheid, became South Africa's first black president in 1994. His release in 1990 heralded the transition to democracy for which he won the Nobel Peace Prize with the last white president, F.W. de Klerk. Mandela committed to only one term, stepping down in 1999. Internationally respected as an icon of reconciliation, his death in 2013 was met with an outpouring of emotion worldwide. Later, in-fighting and graft scandals within the ANC peaked in 2018 when Jacob Zuma was forced to step down as president. Also read: 25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President 'Rainbow Nation' tarnished The optimism of the post-apartheid "Rainbow Nation" has waned amid widespread complaints of weak governance, poor delivery of public services, corruption and crime. The number of regular houses, as opposed to makeshift shacks, increased by a quarter since 1996, as did access to electricity (61 per cent), according to a Centre for Risk Analysis survey in 2019. But some 20 per cent of black households are classed as living in extreme poverty compared to 2.9 per cent of white households, the Institute of Race Relations says. With a population of 56.7 million (2017), the country still has "one of the highest inequality rates in the world," the World Bank says. Most of South Africa's arable land, meanwhile, remains in the hands of white farmers. Economic woes The second-strongest economy in Africa behind Nigeria, South Africa is the world's top producer of platinum and a leading supplier of gold, diamonds and other minerals. However, mining has shed about 300,000 jobs, now only making up about seven per cent of gross domestic product from a peak of about 20 per cent in the 1980s. Having seen sharp gains from 1994 to 2006 with annual growth above five per cent, the economy crashed in 2008 at the height of the global financial crisis. Growth was just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and is projected to be 1.3 per cent for 2019, the World Bank says. Official unemployment is at 27.1 per cent, reaching 53 per cent for people aged under 35 -- among the highest in the world. Sunny SA With unspoiled beaches, vineyards and animal reserves, the country was the continent's leading tourist destination behind Morocco in 2017, according to the UN's tourism authority. There were more than 10 million visitors in 2017, and the sector contributed 10 per cent to the economy. The country hosted Africa's first World Cup in 2006 and is also the sole nation on the continent to allow gay marriage. But crime remains persistently high, the murder rate rising in 2017 to about 57 a day. South Africa also has the biggest HIV/AIDS epidemic in the world, with 7.1 million people living with HIV, the UN says.

South Africa: Struggling 25 years after apartheid

In its sixth election since the end of Apartheid rule, South Africa today is all set to test the popularity of the African National Congress that has been ruling the country since its independence in 1994.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">South Africa election facts and voting procedures</a>

Polling stations opened for&nbsp;national elections in the country on Wednesday with around&nbsp;26.8 million voters registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations.

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The ANC is tipped to win but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters.

Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-party-leaders-battle-it-out-in-south-africa-election-216891">main opponents in the battle&nbsp;</a>for power in South Africa are&nbsp;Cyril Ramaphosa&nbsp;from the ruling ANC,&nbsp;Mmusi Maimane from the Democratic Alliance (DA) which is also the main opposition party in South Africa and&nbsp;Julius Malema from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party.

The leaders of the three main parties are vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance.

The land is a highly emotive issue in South Africa, where the bulk of productive agricultural land has remained in white hands since the end of apartheid in 1994. A farm industry group and government argue over exactly how much land is in black hands.

That land was forcibly taken from black people during the colonial and apartheid eras.

Under pressure from the far-left EFF and more radical elements in the ANC, Ramaphosa last year launched a process to change the constitution to make explicit provision for land expropriation without compensation

The three main political parties have all put job creation at the heart of their campaigns with around 27 per cent of South Africans unemployed in the fourth quarter last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In its sixth election since the end of Apartheid rule, South Africa today is all set to test the popularity of the African National Congress that has been ruling the country since its independence in 1994.

In its sixth election since the end of Apartheid rule, South Africa today is all set to test the popularity of the African National Congress that has been ruling the country since its independence in 1994. Also read: South Africa election facts and voting procedures Polling stations opened for national elections in the country on Wednesday with around 26.8 million voters registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations. × The ANC is tipped to win but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters. Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014. The main opponents in the battle for power in South Africa are Cyril Ramaphosa from the ruling ANC, Mmusi Maimane from the Democratic Alliance (DA) which is also the main opposition party in South Africa and Julius Malema from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party. The leaders of the three main parties are vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance. The land is a highly emotive issue in South Africa, where the bulk of productive agricultural land has remained in white hands since the end of apartheid in 1994. A farm industry group and government argue over exactly how much land is in black hands. That land was forcibly taken from black people during the colonial and apartheid eras. Under pressure from the far-left EFF and more radical elements in the ANC, Ramaphosa last year launched a process to change the constitution to make explicit provision for land expropriation without compensation The three main political parties have all put job creation at the heart of their campaigns with around 27 per cent of South Africans unemployed in the fourth quarter last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Voting begins in South Africa to elect next government

South Africa’s May 8 election will decide the future of the ANC while Unemployment, corruption remain main issue. Watch full video to know more.

South Africa election on 8 May; Unemployment, corruption main issues

South Africa have called up all-rounder Chris Morris for their <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-can-end-world-cup-agony-dale-steyn-211431&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiilf6EvoniAhUCSY8KHTaiCpsQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw03Qpe9sHzxBpDhGgU6MDWB">Cricket World Cup</a> squad after a hand injury ruled fast bowler Anrich Nortje out of the tournament, in the latest setback for the injury-plagued side.

Nortje fractured his right thumb while practising in the nets and will need six to eight weeks to make a full recovery, a media statement from Cricket South Africa confirmed on Tuesday.

"Anrich sustained a fracture to his right thumb during a net session in Port Elizabeth on Monday. He immediately consulted a hand surgeon and underwent surgery to stabilise the joint and will, unfortunately, be sidelined for up to eight weeks," team manager Mohammed Moosajee said.

"It is an unfortunate and freakish injury, especially because he had made a successful recovery from the shoulder injury he sustained during the series against Sri Lanka."

Morris has not played One-Day International cricket for South Africa since February 2018, but is a regular in the Twenty20 set-up and is well-regarded for his swing and 'death bowling' in the final few overs when batsmen aim for big hits.

He can also be a powerful lower-order batsman, able to easily clear the boundary ropes.

His record in 50-over cricket is modest though, with 35 wickets in 34 matches at an average of over 40, while he averages less than 20 with the bat.

"Chris has always been in our plans and is our next best option with the ball," South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said.

"He has the pace and death-bowling skills which will be vital in the UK, and also gives us that depth as a deadly finisher with the bat. We have had concerns around his injuries and workload capabilities, but this is an opportunity for him to make a mark on the biggest stage", Zondi added.

South Africa's build-up to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/off-form-hashim-amla-makes-south-africa-world-cup-squad-211566&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiilf6EvoniAhUCSY8KHTaiCpsQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1u7LMQISzEEJHN3AQhB_ud">World Cup</a> has been marred by injuries to key players – especially in their fast bowling attack.

Lungi Ngidi dropped out of the Indian Premier League before it began with a side strain, while Kagiso Rabada (back) and Dale Steyn (shoulder) were both withdrawn from that competition due to injury concerns.

The trio is likely to all start if they can prove their fitness, and it would be a massive blow for the team's chances if they fail to do so.

South Africa open their World Cup campaign against hosts England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa have called up all-rounder Chris Morris for their Cricket World Cup squad after a hand injury ruled fast bowler Anrich Nortje out of the tournament, in the latest setback for the injury-plagued side.

South Africa have called up all-rounder Chris Morris for their Cricket World Cup squad after a hand injury ruled fast bowler Anrich Nortje out of the tournament, in the latest setback for the injury-plagued side. Nortje fractured his right thumb while practising in the nets and will need six to eight weeks to make a full recovery, a media statement from Cricket South Africa confirmed on Tuesday. "Anrich sustained a fracture to his right thumb during a net session in Port Elizabeth on Monday. He immediately consulted a hand surgeon and underwent surgery to stabilise the joint and will, unfortunately, be sidelined for up to eight weeks," team manager Mohammed Moosajee said. "It is an unfortunate and freakish injury, especially because he had made a successful recovery from the shoulder injury he sustained during the series against Sri Lanka." Morris has not played One-Day International cricket for South Africa since February 2018, but is a regular in the Twenty20 set-up and is well-regarded for his swing and 'death bowling' in the final few overs when batsmen aim for big hits. He can also be a powerful lower-order batsman, able to easily clear the boundary ropes. His record in 50-over cricket is modest though, with 35 wickets in 34 matches at an average of over 40, while he averages less than 20 with the bat. "Chris has always been in our plans and is our next best option with the ball," South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said. "He has the pace and death-bowling skills which will be vital in the UK, and also gives us that depth as a deadly finisher with the bat. We have had concerns around his injuries and workload capabilities, but this is an opportunity for him to make a mark on the biggest stage", Zondi added. South Africa's build-up to the World Cup has been marred by injuries to key players – especially in their fast bowling attack. Lungi Ngidi dropped out of the Indian Premier League before it began with a side strain, while Kagiso Rabada (back) and Dale Steyn (shoulder) were both withdrawn from that competition due to injury concerns. The trio is likely to all start if they can prove their fitness, and it would be a massive blow for the team's chances if they fail to do so. South Africa open their World Cup campaign against hosts England at The Oval on May 30.

Chris Morris in for Anrich Nortje as South Africa forced to shuffle World Cup squad

South Africa is due to hold parliamentary and <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">provincial elections on May 8</a>, amid frustration with a lack of progress 25 years after Nelson Mandela's African National Congress (ANC) swept to power at the end of white minority rule.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, who took over from scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as ANC leader in December 2017, is trying to restore faith in the governing party after a torrid decade under Zuma during which its image suffered.

The ANC has won every parliamentary election since 1994 but saw its share of the vote fall from a high of more than 69 per cent in 2004 to 62 per cent in 2014, as economic growth faltered and corruption scandals multiplied.

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It is expected to secure another parliamentary majority this week, but analysts predict that majority could fall, despite Ramaphosa's efforts to clean up the party's image.

Ramaphosa faces South Africa's largest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA) headed by Mmusi Maimane - the first black African to lead the centre-right party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) formed by former ANC youth leader Julius Malema in 2013, which has built its agenda on highlighting state graft and championing radical economic reforms such as mine nationalisation and land expropriation without compensation.

The land is a highly emotive issue in South Africa, where the bulk of productive agricultural land has remained in white hands since the end of apartheid in 1994. A farm industry group and government argue over exactly how much land is in black hands.

That land was forcibly taken from black people during the colonial and apartheid eras.

Under pressure from the far-left EFF and more radical elements in the ANC, Ramaphosa last year launched a process to change the constitution to make explicit provision for land expropriation without compensation

The three main political parties have all put job creation at the heart of their campaigns with around 27 per cent of South Africans unemployed in the fourth quarter last year.

South Africa is due to hold parliamentary and provincial elections on May 8, amid frustration with a lack of progress 25 years after Nelson Mandela's African National Congress (ANC) swept to power at the end of white minority rule.

South Africa is due to hold parliamentary and provincial elections on May 8, amid frustration with a lack of progress 25 years after Nelson Mandela's African National Congress (ANC) swept to power at the end of white minority rule. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who took over from scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as ANC leader in December 2017, is trying to restore faith in the governing party after a torrid decade under Zuma during which its image suffered. The ANC has won every parliamentary election since 1994 but saw its share of the vote fall from a high of more than 69 per cent in 2004 to 62 per cent in 2014, as economic growth faltered and corruption scandals multiplied. It is expected to secure another parliamentary majority this week, but analysts predict that majority could fall, despite Ramaphosa's efforts to clean up the party's image. Ramaphosa faces South Africa's largest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA) headed by Mmusi Maimane - the first black African to lead the centre-right party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) formed by former ANC youth leader Julius Malema in 2013, which has built its agenda on highlighting state graft and championing radical economic reforms such as mine nationalisation and land expropriation without compensation. The land is a highly emotive issue in South Africa, where the bulk of productive agricultural land has remained in white hands since the end of apartheid in 1994. A farm industry group and government argue over exactly how much land is in black hands. That land was forcibly taken from black people during the colonial and apartheid eras. Under pressure from the far-left EFF and more radical elements in the ANC, Ramaphosa last year launched a process to change the constitution to make explicit provision for land expropriation without compensation The three main political parties have all put job creation at the heart of their campaigns with around 27 per cent of South Africans unemployed in the fourth quarter last year.

Campaigning in South Africa wraps up ahead of election

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday for the country's sixth democratic general election since the end of apartheid in 1994.&nbsp;

Some key facts about the election:

- Voters will cast ballots for national legislators and leaders of the country's nine provinces. Voters do not directly elect individual candidates. They vote for a political party.

- Using a proportional representation system, the number of votes cast for each party will determine the number of seats it gets in parliament. Each party will then distribute the seats to a list of pre-selected members.&nbsp;

- The lawmakers will then elect the country's president from the party which receives the majority of votes. The first sitting of the new parliament is provisionally scheduled for May 22.

- There are 26.7 million South Africans, almost half of the population, registered to vote.&nbsp;

- Voters will cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations that will open for 14 hours starting at 0500 GMT.

- As many as 29,000 South African expatriates cast their ballots at various foreign diplomatic missions a week ago.

- There are 48 political parties contesting the national elections.

- Provincial assemblies comprise of between 30 and 80 members, from where four members are picked to serve in the upper house of the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces.&nbsp;

- Final results from the elections must be released within seven days. The Independent Electoral Commission has in past elections managed to release results within three days of the vote.

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday for the country's sixth democratic general election since the end of apartheid in 1994. Some key facts about the election: - Voters will cast ballots for national legislators and leaders of the country's nine provinces.

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday for the country's sixth democratic general election since the end of apartheid in 1994. Some key facts about the election: - Voters will cast ballots for national legislators and leaders of the country's nine provinces. Voters do not directly elect individual candidates. They vote for a political party. - Using a proportional representation system, the number of votes cast for each party will determine the number of seats it gets in parliament. Each party will then distribute the seats to a list of pre-selected members. - The lawmakers will then elect the country's president from the party which receives the majority of votes. The first sitting of the new parliament is provisionally scheduled for May 22. - There are 26.7 million South Africans, almost half of the population, registered to vote. - Voters will cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations that will open for 14 hours starting at 0500 GMT. - As many as 29,000 South African expatriates cast their ballots at various foreign diplomatic missions a week ago. - There are 48 political parties contesting the national elections. - Provincial assemblies comprise of between 30 and 80 members, from where four members are picked to serve in the upper house of the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces. - Final results from the elections must be released within seven days. The Independent Electoral Commission has in past elections managed to release results within three days of the vote.

South Africa election facts and voting procedures

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