South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad, expressed his strong disapproval regarding the 'chokers' label ahead of ICC T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final match against New Zealand at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on March 4. The South African cricket team has been given the 'chokers' label after their defeat in the major ICC knockouts. However, Conrad is of the opinion that the existing South African side led by Aiden Markram should not be judged by the past. Shukri Conrad expressed his views on the issue without any hesitation during the post-match press conference. Conrad said: "There is always pressure. I think it's what you do with that pressure and how you shift the pressure. As for the C word, I think there's another one for it, cupcakes. I thought we kind of enjoyed that. But no, there is always pressure, and it is really about embracing that pressure. And we do not do things any differently.” Ahmedabad Feels Like Home for Proteas The South African cricket team has played five matches out of their seven matches at Narendra Modi Stadium. The team has performed well at this venue. Conrad is hopeful that his team will play the final match here if they win against New Zealand. He added: "If we can continue doing what we’re doing, and we need a little bit of luck along the way as well, hopefully that will give us the result on Wednesday. And then it’s on to our home ground in Ahmedabad for the final.” The team has succeeded in all their missions because they have access to familiar environments. The team has not lost a single game during the tournament, which makes them the most powerful team. Also Read | Financial sanctions worth millions! Pakistani stars to face unique punishment after 2026 T20 WC Group 8 exit Pressure of Knockout Still Remains The team is performing well, although there are some concerns regarding this team because South Africa lost the T20 World Cup 2024 final from a strong position. Most people still remember this defeat. However, Conrad has made it very clear that his team will not alter its strategy for the semi-finals. He further added: “We are going to prepare exactly the same way for New Zealand. Whether we start as favourites, probably because we are the only unbeaten side in the competition. But I do not know if that adds to the pressure. I think the semi-final is pressure enough. Playing a top side, New Zealand is pressure enough. So there is no added pressure." New Zealand has proved to be the toughest opponent for South Africa in the tournament. The team needs a win in order to get a second shot at the ICC trophy, while they also need to erase their historical reputation.