Kirsten warns Proteas to improve to make mark in Champions Trophy

Outgoing South African coach Gary Kirsten has it is necessary for the team to improve in their last two group B matches of the ICC Champions Trophy for having success in the eight-nation tournament.

After their 26-run loss to India in the opening match, South Africa has to beat Pakistan and the West Indies to stand any chance of qualifying for the semi-finals of the competition, Sport24 reports.

Stating that some of the players have not started playing to their optimum level, the head coach said that the team is aware that they do not have much time in their hands for which, they need to play well in the future matches, adding that despite having the chances to turn around the game against India, they were disappointed as they did not have the necessary fire.

According to Kirsten, although the absence of Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel will put a big vacuum in the team, it, however, will be an exciting opportunity for young all-rounder Chris Morris to make a mark if he is selected as he is coming off an impressive debut stint for the Chennai Super Kings franchise in the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League.

Praising Morris, Kirsten said that Morris has done well in his domestic matches and has come to the Champions Trophy full of confidence, adding that although the young player does not much time for preparation, he has played some competitive cricket less than two weeks ago, for which, he should be ready for playing in the tournament.

The Proteas' medical team will make a decision on the availability of Steyn for the match against Pakistan after tomorrow's training session, the report added.