Wasim Akram’s 1992 heroics inspire Rabada ahead of 2027 World Cup

JOHANNESBURG: South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has revealed that one of Wasim Akram’s greatest World Cup performances is motivating him as the Proteas prepare for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup on home soil.

Rabada, speaking at the official World Cup 2027 venue and brand announcement event in Johannesburg, acknowledged that hosting cricket’s biggest tournament brings an added sense of responsibility. However, the experienced pacer said he prefers to view home advantage as an opportunity rather than a burden.

“I think there’s a lot more to it at the moment with us hosting it,” Rabada said.

Rather than feeling pressured to deliver a title in front of home supporters, the 31-year-old wants South Africa to embrace the occasion and protect what he described as their “fortress”.

“For me, it’s about representing the badge,” Rabada said, stressing the pride that comes with playing a World Cup in front of South African fans.

The fast bowler also looked back at the 1992 World Cup final, identifying Pakistan great Wasim Akram’s devastating spell against England as one of the tournament moments he remembers most vividly.

Akram changed the final with two remarkable deliveries that removed Allan Lamb and Chris Lewis in successive balls, helping Pakistan seize control before eventually lifting the trophy.

For Rabada, the performance represented everything he admires about fast bowling: pace, skill, intensity and the ability to rise to the biggest occasion.

“He was fast, had so much skill, and just had this presence, this heightened energy about him,” Rabada recalled.

The South African pacer hopes his team can create a similarly memorable moment in 2027. South Africa have repeatedly shown the ability to reach the latter stages of major ICC tournaments but have struggled to convert those appearances into a world title.

Rabada believes that barrier is no longer psychological.

“We’ve shown that we can go and play in finals and in the semi-finals,” he said.

The remaining challenge, he added, is taking that final step.

With the 2027 World Cup set to be staged across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, Rabada and his teammates will have a major opportunity to write their own chapter in cricket history.

And if Rabada can channel even a little of Akram’s 1992 magic, South African fans may have plenty to celebrate.