Indian Players Will Be Heartbroken, Losing World Cup Is Like Breaking Up With Girlfriend: Faf du Plessis

Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis believes the Indian players are still heartbroken over the painful defeat in the 2023 World Cup final. India’s stunning run in the competition came to an end with a heartbreaking defeat against Australia in the final.

The Men in Blue thoroughly dominated the competition and outplayed every team on their way to the final. They won all of their 9 league games with utmost ease including a six-wicket win over Australia. In the semifinal, the Rohit Sharma-led side thrashed New Zealand by 70 wickets to book a place in the final.

Playing their first World Cup final since 2011, India were the firm favorites to win the title decider. However, Australia completely outplayed the fancied hosts to win the game by six wickets and clinch a record-extending sixth World Cup title. The Pat Cummins-led side bowled out India for a modest total of 240 before chasing it down in 43 overs.

Faf du Plessis on India’s loss in the World Cup final:

Most of India’s players who played in the World Cup were rested for the five-match series against Australia and will return to action in the upcoming series against South Africa. India are scheduled to play three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests against the Proteas. And Faf du Plessis it will not be easy for the players to return to action after the World Cup final loss.

“That is a big challenge. I remember going through a similar experience as a cricketer when we went through the highs and lows of the 2015 World Cup. The heartache that you have to deal with takes a bit of time and it is a bit like breaking up with a girlfriend.

“You cannot just get over it straight away. India were so amazing in the way they played in this World Cup. They were unbelievable the way they went about their business. They will be feeling in a similar way and they will be heartbroken. That was their World Cup to win. That will take a bit of time and time heals everything,” Faf du Plessis told NDTV.

“Your first series back feels like you are in the middle of nowhere. Obviously there are so quality players there and some experience players who I am sure will help manage the young guys well,” he added.