Exclusive: Dane Paterson Rejects Underdog Tag as Proteas Prepare for Date with Destiny

With just a week to go before the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, South Africa’s preparations are in full swing as they gear up to face a formidable Australian side at Lord’s. 

Despite outside scepticism and whispers questioning the Proteas' place in the final, fast bowler Dane Paterson insists his team is ready and not to be underestimated.

'We’re Not Underdogs' – Paterson

Facing off against the number-one ranked Test team in the world, South Africa are widely seen as the underdogs heading into the June 10 showdown. But Paterson rejects that label.

“We don’t feel we are the underdogs. Both teams are heading into unfamiliar territory — Lord’s, the slope, the Dukes ball, it’s all a bit different from what we’re used to with the Kookaburra,” Paterson told SportsBoom.co.za. 

“I definitely don’t think we’re second best.”

When asked about the squad’s chances, the seamer was resolute: “Yes, we believe we can win. Every South African team has that willpower and drive. We know what’s at stake and this is a shot at the Mace, the gold medal of Test cricket. We’re playing for the people back home, and that brings us massive motivation.”

Preparation, Unity, and Return From Injuries

Head coach Shukri Conrad made a bold call by pulling Test players out of the Indian Premier League early to ensure proper preparation. The Proteas assembled last week, giving them a two-week build-up that includes a warm-up match against Zimbabwe, though day one was washed out by rain.

“It’s a squad full of experience,” said Paterson. 

“Some guys are coming from the IPL, others from County cricket, but everyone here knows international cricket. That’s what matters.”

There have also been positive signs on the injury front. David Bedingham, who suffered a toe fracture, is back training and expected to be fit for selection.

“Everyone is mentally ready. It doesn’t matter where they’ve been playing, IPL or County. They’re excited for the challenge ahead.”

Shukri Conrad's Impact: The Culture Shift

Conrad’s influence on the Proteas has been pivotal. Since taking the reins as South Africa’s all-format head coach, he’s overseen a remarkable turnaround in the Test setup, culminating in the team’s first-ever WTC Final appearance. His efforts earned him the Wisden Coach of the Year award and deservedly so.

“The players set the tone in the environment, but Shuks is a brilliant coach,” Paterson remarked. 

“He’s fostered a culture where performance comes from confidence, not pressure.”

What’s more, Conrad’s leadership now extends into white-ball cricket following the departure of Rob Walter. With major ICC tournaments approaching, players are optimistic that the success of the Test side will spill over into ODIs and T20s.

“There’s a smooth transition coming,” said Paterson. 

“The values from the Test side with the unity, clarity, belief which will carry over to the white-ball teams. Shukri has a way of bringing the best out of players.”

A Defining Moment for South African Cricket

With the final now in sight, the Proteas are focused not on the chatter, but on the cricket. They’re up against one of the most complete sides in modern Test history but they carry belief, form, and a deeply rooted purpose.

“It won’t be easy,” admitted Paterson. “But we believe in our team. And we believe that we belong in this final.”

As the countdown to Lord’s begins, South Africa is not just playing for the Mace — they’re playing to rewrite their Test legacy.