The South African cricket team are keen to rewrite the history books as they seek to win their first ever World Cup title.
The Proteas have never advanced past the semi-final stages of the competition. They were knocked out by the Black Caps in the quarter-finals four years ago when they capitulated chasing 222 for victory only to be bowled out for 172.
However, South African bowling coach Alan Donald senses the players are up for the challenge.
"I think there is a calm confidence about this group that I haven't felt before," he said.
"The next question will be how we deal with the choker's tag. We embraced that four years ago, something that we have taken on board right from the word go and that will never go away until we win an ICC event."
South Africa's first challenge will be overcoming a Zimbabwean team in Hamilton on Sunday who are on a high after chasing down Sri Lanka's 281 to record a seven-wicket victory in a warm-up game in Christchurch midweek.
"We are taking them absolutely seriously, of course. We know what they are capable of - they've got a couple of players we feel will be pivotal for them.
"I think Hamilton Masakadza has really announced himself against Sri Lanka with a great hundred," the former quick said.
But when asked who are favourites to win the tournament, the man known as "White Lightning" in his playing days responded with a straight bat.
"You look around and you see the talent and the teams that are out here and you cannot take any team lightly. You have to find the right time to peak and that's just the pressure of the World Cup."
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