Champions Trophy 2017 | South Africa needs to execute plans better, feels Graeme Smith

South Africa was handed out a 19-runs(D/L method) defeat by underdogs Pakistan on Wednesday in a rain-curtailed affair which proved to be a setback for the Proteas to feature in the semi-finals of the tournament. The South African side will next face India on June 11th who themselves would be hoping to win the tie to keep their hopes of a successful title defence alive and the match can be termed as one of the virtual quarterfinals.

Former South African skipper expressed concerns over the way the Proteas executed their plans in an ICC column. The 36-years old also praised Morne Morkel for his splendid figures of 3/18 in 7 overs which might have helped the Proteas turn the match into a nail-biting affair had rains not played spoilsport.

“South Africa has to reevaluate and ensure it executes its plans far better in Sunday’s game. A positive from my point of view was to see the form Morne Morkel is in with the ball. When he’s in that mood and finds his rhythm, he can be one of the most dangerous strike bowlers in the game. He has that ability to take a game by the scuff of the neck and make something happen," he wrote.

“It wasn’t enough on Wednesday, as Pakistan could afford to be more cautious in its approach when batting, but his form could be key against India’s formidable batting powerhouse,” Smith added.

"To sum up, it was simply a poor day for South Africa. It’ll know where it needs to improve and has a few days to focus on what is now a hugely important game on Sunday."