South Africa delivered a dominant performance to beat Australia by an innings and 31 runs in the second Test at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Thursday (Oct 22), levelling the three-match series 1-1. After the Proteas slipped to 110/6, captain Temba Bavuma produced a magnificent 179 off 334 balls, hitting 18 fours and a six to lead the fightback. Marco Jansen contributed 85 off 100 balls, while Simon Harmer scored 82 off 157 deliveries as South Africa declared at 425/9.&nbsp;South Africa have won 28 of the 33 Tests in which they enforced the follow-on, with the remaining five ending in draws. Australia, meanwhile, have lost 30 and drawn 11 of the 41 Tests in which they were asked to bat again.&nbsp;Australia struggled in their first innings, managing just 99 in 42.3 overs. Jansen took five wickets for 33 runs, while Wiaan Mulder and Kagiso Rabada claimed two wickets each. Steve Smith was their highest scorer with 28 runs.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-sl-joe-root-becomes-first-english-batter-to-reach-8-000-odi-runs-1792671483681">ENG vs SL: Joe Root becomes first English batter to reach 8,000 ODI runs</a>&nbsp;Following on, Australia fought back through Travis Head, who scored a determined 121 off 190 balls, including 15 fours. It was the first time Australia lost an international match in which Head scored a century, across 21 such occasions.&nbsp;&nbsp;The only other instance in which his team did not win was a drawn Test against India in Brisbane in 2024, where he scored 152.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-t20i-samson-dhir-shine-as-india-beat-new-zealand-by-four-wickets-1792666647095">IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Samson, Dhir shine as India beat New Zealand by 4 wickets</a>&nbsp;Marnus Labuschagne made 39, Scott Boland scored 40 off 166 balls and Alex Carey remained unbeaten on 37. However, Rabada took four wickets and Mulder claimed three as Australia were bowled out for 295 in 107.1 overs.&nbsp;The defeat marked Australia’s fifth Test loss in Gqeberha, where they have not won a match since 1997.

South Africa staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Australia by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha on Thursday, levelling the three-Test series 1-1 despite losing more than 140 overs to rain.

South Africa delivered a dominant performance to beat Australia by an innings and 31 runs in the second Test at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Thursday (Oct 22), levelling the three-match series 1-1. After the Proteas slipped to 110/6, captain Temba Bavuma produced a magnificent 179 off 334 balls, hitting 18 fours and a six to lead the fightback. Marco Jansen contributed 85 off 100 balls, while Simon Harmer scored 82 off 157 deliveries as South Africa declared at 425/9. South Africa have won 28 of the 33 Tests in which they enforced the follow-on, with the remaining five ending in draws. Australia, meanwhile, have lost 30 and drawn 11 of the 41 Tests in which they were asked to bat again. Australia struggled in their first innings, managing just 99 in 42.3 overs. Jansen took five wickets for 33 runs, while Wiaan Mulder and Kagiso Rabada claimed two wickets each. Steve Smith was their highest scorer with 28 runs. Also Read - ENG vs SL: Joe Root becomes first English batter to reach 8,000 ODI runs Following on, Australia fought back through Travis Head, who scored a determined 121 off 190 balls, including 15 fours. It was the first time Australia lost an international match in which Head scored a century, across 21 such occasions. The only other instance in which his team did not win was a drawn Test against India in Brisbane in 2024, where he scored 152. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Samson, Dhir shine as India beat New Zealand by 4 wickets Marnus Labuschagne made 39, Scott Boland scored 40 off 166 balls and Alex Carey remained unbeaten on 37. However, Rabada took four wickets and Mulder claimed three as Australia were bowled out for 295 in 107.1 overs. The defeat marked Australia’s fifth Test loss in Gqeberha, where they have not won a match since 1997.

South Africa staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Australia by an innings and 31 runs in Gqeberha on Thursday, levelling the three-Test series 1-1 despite losing more than 140 overs to rain.

SA vs AUS, 2nd Test: Bavuma, bowlers shine as Proteas hand Australia an innings defeat to level series

South African Test captain Temba Bavuma admits to taking inspiration from Little Master Sachin Tendulkar for his career-best 179 against Australia in the first innings of the ongoing second Test in Gqeberha. Following South Africa's shaky start, after they were reduced to 110/6 at one stage, Bavuma revived their innings and helped them declare for 425 for nine. He led from the front and, with handy contributions from Marco Jansen (85) and Simon Harmer (82), helped the hosts sit in the driver’s seat in this rain-hit second Test. &nbsp;Bavuma stitched two 100-plus stands for the seventh and the eighth wicket, with the tail and bailed the team out of trouble. During his marathon knock that lasted 334 balls, Bavuma scored 18 fours and a six, tiring out the Australian pace quartet, which shared eight wickets between them. Scott Boland was the most successful, with five for 81 to his name, and Mitchell Starc returned with three for 89. &nbsp;"Yeah, I mean, I try to emulate my technique to his (Sachin Tendulkar). I mean, I'm obviously not a big guy. I'm not really going to get any big strides in. I try to be efficient in terms of my movement. Sometimes it gets me into trouble. But I think for me, that's generally what works. I try to play the ball as close to my body as possible. Yeah, kind of hope that that's going to work," Bavuma said in a chat with the broadcaster after the end of the third day's play.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-aus-2nd-test-steve-smith-11000-runs-australia-all-out-99-1792585154184">SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Steve Smith crosses 11,000 runs but Australia all out for 99 in 1st innings</a> &nbsp;Calling this his best knock to date, captain Bavuma said, “Yeah, definitely one of my better ones. I think looking at the situation of the game, and I think personally as well, I found myself a lot in that type of situation, coming in early, trying to manage myself to kind of scramble through to a 50 or 60, but I think what was nice was my ability just to take it even further and make it count.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, as things stand, South Africa wrapped up Australia’s first innings for just 99, with Jansen starring with the ball, picking up a brilliant five-wicket haul. Wiaan Mulder and Kagiso Rabada returned with two wickets each, while Anrich Nortje, who walked off the field with a suspected groin injury, picked up one. &nbsp;The hosts enforced the follow-on, with Australia losing opener Nic Maddinson for eight. Australia were 50/1 at tea on day four, trailing by 276 runs.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma revealed how emulating Sachin Tendulkar inspired his career-best 179 against Australia in the 2nd Test at Gqeberha.

South African Test captain Temba Bavuma admits to taking inspiration from Little Master Sachin Tendulkar for his career-best 179 against Australia in the first innings of the ongoing second Test in Gqeberha. Following South Africa's shaky start, after they were reduced to 110/6 at one stage, Bavuma revived their innings and helped them declare for 425 for nine. He led from the front and, with handy contributions from Marco Jansen (85) and Simon Harmer (82), helped the hosts sit in the driver’s seat in this rain-hit second Test. Bavuma stitched two 100-plus stands for the seventh and the eighth wicket, with the tail and bailed the team out of trouble. During his marathon knock that lasted 334 balls, Bavuma scored 18 fours and a six, tiring out the Australian pace quartet, which shared eight wickets between them. Scott Boland was the most successful, with five for 81 to his name, and Mitchell Starc returned with three for 89. "Yeah, I mean, I try to emulate my technique to his (Sachin Tendulkar). I mean, I'm obviously not a big guy. I'm not really going to get any big strides in. I try to be efficient in terms of my movement. Sometimes it gets me into trouble. But I think for me, that's generally what works. I try to play the ball as close to my body as possible. Yeah, kind of hope that that's going to work," Bavuma said in a chat with the broadcaster after the end of the third day's play. Also read| SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Steve Smith crosses 11,000 runs but Australia all out for 99 in 1st innings Calling this his best knock to date, captain Bavuma said, “Yeah, definitely one of my better ones. I think looking at the situation of the game, and I think personally as well, I found myself a lot in that type of situation, coming in early, trying to manage myself to kind of scramble through to a 50 or 60, but I think what was nice was my ability just to take it even further and make it count.” Meanwhile, as things stand, South Africa wrapped up Australia’s first innings for just 99, with Jansen starring with the ball, picking up a brilliant five-wicket haul. Wiaan Mulder and Kagiso Rabada returned with two wickets each, while Anrich Nortje, who walked off the field with a suspected groin injury, picked up one. The hosts enforced the follow-on, with Australia losing opener Nic Maddinson for eight. Australia were 50/1 at tea on day four, trailing by 276 runs.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma revealed how emulating Sachin Tendulkar inspired his career-best 179 against Australia in the 2nd Test at Gqeberha.

SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Temba Bavuma reveals 'Tendulkar inspiration' behind career-best 179

Cricket veteran Steve Smith surpassed 11,000 Test runs during the ongoing second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha, but failed to save Australia’s sinking boat in the first innings. In reply to South Africa’s 425/9 dec in the first innings, the visitors were all out for just 99 early on day four, with the hosts enforcing the follow-on. Smith became only the 12th player overall and the 3rd Australian after Ricky Ponting (13,378) and Allan Border (11,174) to score 11,000 or more Test runs. He was also Australia’s highest scorer in the first innings, scoring 28 off 88 balls, including two fours. &nbsp;Meanwhile, for South Africa, ace seamer Anrich Nortje walked off with a suspected right groin injury during the opening session, hinting at his possible absence from the remainder of the Test. Cricket South Africa (CSA) also confirmed his participation status in the first innings.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-u19-womens-t20-world-cup-schedule-india-west-indies-opening-match-1792582303118">Defending champions India to open 2027 U19 Women’s T20 World Cup campaign vs West Indies</a> &nbsp;Smith achieved the feat on the first ball of the 39th over off Marco Jansen, becoming the fifth-quickest to 11,000 Test runs in 226 innings. Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara leads the chart with 208 innings.<h3>SA Dominate AUS in 1st Innings</h3>South Africa captain Temba Bavuma led from the front and bailed his team out of trouble following delayed starts to the proceedings on the first two days due to persistent rain. After the hosts were reduced to 110 for six in the first innings, Bavuma and Jansen stitched a game-changing 132-run stand for the seventh wicket, with the lanky all-rounder cracking a counter-attacking 85 off 100 balls. &nbsp;Bavuma then added 183 runs for the eighth wicket with spinner Simon Harmer, completing his hundred in the meantime. While the all-rounder was dismissed for a valiant 82, Bavuma fell for 179 off 334 balls – having played perhaps the best innings of his life. &nbsp;Australia lost Nic Maddinson for a four-ball duck to Kagiso Rabada in the first innings, before Jansen ran through Australia’s batting to leave them reeling at 65 for six at one stage. Little resistance from Smith saved Australia from getting folded earlier, but couldn’t prevent the inevitable as they got all out on 99, trailing by 326 runs.

Steve Smith crossed 11,000 Test runs, but Australia collapsed to 99 all out against South Africa in Gqeberha. Read the match report, milestones, and injury updates.

Cricket veteran Steve Smith surpassed 11,000 Test runs during the ongoing second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha, but failed to save Australia’s sinking boat in the first innings. In reply to South Africa’s 425/9 dec in the first innings, the visitors were all out for just 99 early on day four, with the hosts enforcing the follow-on. Smith became only the 12th player overall and the 3rd Australian after Ricky Ponting (13,378) and Allan Border (11,174) to score 11,000 or more Test runs. He was also Australia’s highest scorer in the first innings, scoring 28 off 88 balls, including two fours. Meanwhile, for South Africa, ace seamer Anrich Nortje walked off with a suspected right groin injury during the opening session, hinting at his possible absence from the remainder of the Test. Cricket South Africa (CSA) also confirmed his participation status in the first innings. Also read| Defending champions India to open 2027 U19 Women’s T20 World Cup campaign vs West Indies Smith achieved the feat on the first ball of the 39th over off Marco Jansen, becoming the fifth-quickest to 11,000 Test runs in 226 innings. Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara leads the chart with 208 innings. SA Dominate AUS in 1st Innings South Africa captain Temba Bavuma led from the front and bailed his team out of trouble following delayed starts to the proceedings on the first two days due to persistent rain. After the hosts were reduced to 110 for six in the first innings, Bavuma and Jansen stitched a game-changing 132-run stand for the seventh wicket, with the lanky all-rounder cracking a counter-attacking 85 off 100 balls. Bavuma then added 183 runs for the eighth wicket with spinner Simon Harmer, completing his hundred in the meantime. While the all-rounder was dismissed for a valiant 82, Bavuma fell for 179 off 334 balls – having played perhaps the best innings of his life. Australia lost Nic Maddinson for a four-ball duck to Kagiso Rabada in the first innings, before Jansen ran through Australia’s batting to leave them reeling at 65 for six at one stage. Little resistance from Smith saved Australia from getting folded earlier, but couldn’t prevent the inevitable as they got all out on 99, trailing by 326 runs.

Steve Smith crossed 11,000 Test runs, but Australia collapsed to 99 all out against South Africa in Gqeberha. Read the match report, milestones, and injury updates.

SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Steve Smith crosses 11,000 runs but Australia all out for 99 in 1st innings

In a massive boost to South Africa, their ace seamer Kagiso Rabada is set to return to the playing XI for the second Test against Australia starting at St George's Park on Sunday (Oct 18), team captain Temba Bavuma said. Rabada missed the series opener in Durban, which the hosts lost by 214 runs, but trained with the team as he completed his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury. &nbsp;With rain set to spoil the first two days, both captains Bavuma and Pat Cummins have deferred from finalising their playing XIs until match day. Bavuma, however, said that Rabada was ‘raring to go’ against his favourite Test opponent in his preferred format.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-personal-net-bowlers-new-zealand-tour-1792240523647">Shubman Gill to pay out of pocket for personal net bowlers for New Zealand tour: Report</a> &nbsp;Against Australia in Tests, Rabada has picked up 58 wickets at 21.39 in 11 outings, including nine wickets in the crucial World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s in June 2025.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Kagiso Rabada, just riveting! 🤩🔥

#Unbreakable #SAvAUS https://t.co/qBhulewpAj&mdash; Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) <a href="https://x.com/ProteasMenCSA/status/2111011477666832807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2026</a></blockquote>
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His absence proved vital in the series opener despite express pace Anrich Nortje’s return, who also impressed, as Australian batters enjoyed scoring runs against the Proteas quicks. &nbsp;"The bowlers feed massively off him," said Bavuma. "There's an aura and a lot of belief in KG (Rabada), and that rubs off on the other players." &nbsp;Bavuma also indicated more changes to the playing XI for the must-win game in Gqeberha, with ODI performer Matthew Breetzke and uncapped Marques Ackerman likely to be included in the playing XI alongside Rabada. The hosts have dropped Tristan Stubbs for the second Test, with Ryan Rickelton asked to keep wickets and bat lower down the order in the second Test. &nbsp;"The first innings was where we fell short," he said. “To concede a lead like that on a wicket like that was rather criminal.”<h3>Changes in AUS’s XI for Second Test</h3>The visitors landed the first blow in this three-match Test series, courtesy of Matt Renshaw’s wonder outings at Kingsmead. With his team reeling at 124/6 at one stage, Renshaw powered Australia to 390 with his career-best 190 in the first innings. The left-hander scored 82 in the second innings to keep Australia’s nose in front, and eventually helped them win the Test match. &nbsp;Amid talks around promoting Renshaw up the order, considering he usually opens in red-ball cricket, Cummins revealed that Renshaw is happy to occupy the number five spot. &nbsp;"He just said, 'yep, no worries, whatever the team needs',” Cummins said. &nbsp;While Nic Maddinson is likely to retain his place at the top alongside another makeshift opener Travis Head, Cummins said all-rounder Cameron Green was still unready to play after suffering an abdominal injury in the ODI series against South Africa last month. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Josh Inglis, who broke his finger on the Zimbabwe tour, is ‘close’ to being ready and available for selection.

Kagiso Rabada is set to return for South Africa in the 2nd Test against Australia as captain Temba Bavuma signals team changes. Read the full playing XI updates.

In a massive boost to South Africa, their ace seamer Kagiso Rabada is set to return to the playing XI for the second Test against Australia starting at St George's Park on Sunday (Oct 18), team captain Temba Bavuma said. Rabada missed the series opener in Durban, which the hosts lost by 214 runs, but trained with the team as he completed his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury. With rain set to spoil the first two days, both captains Bavuma and Pat Cummins have deferred from finalising their playing XIs until match day. Bavuma, however, said that Rabada was ‘raring to go’ against his favourite Test opponent in his preferred format. Also read| Shubman Gill to pay out of pocket for personal net bowlers for New Zealand tour: Report Against Australia in Tests, Rabada has picked up 58 wickets at 21.39 in 11 outings, including nine wickets in the crucial World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s in June 2025.

Kagiso Rabada is set to return for South Africa in the 2nd Test against Australia as captain Temba Bavuma signals team changes. Read the full playing XI updates.

SA vs AUS 2nd Test: Kagiso Rabada set to return as Bavuma signals team changes

Josh Hazlewood bagged his best Test figures of 6/49 in the second innings, and Matt Renshaw scored 272 runs in the match and returned with two wickets to help Australia beat South Africa by 214 runs in the first Test in Durban. The win also accounted for Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma’s first defeat as the Test captain after 12 matches in charge. Even though Aiden Markram’s gritty outing, which lasted 237 balls for his 75, and contributions from David Bedingham (46), Marco Jansen (35) and Wiaan Mulder (29) kept South Africa afloat in the chase, Australia drew first blood on the fifth and final day in this three-match Test series.&nbsp;Chasing a massive 421 on a spicy Durban pitch, Hazlewood first removed opener Ryan Rickelton on two before Bedingham and Markram stitched a 66-run stand for the second wicket to stabilise South Africa’s chase. Hazlewood broke the stand before Renshaw dismissed Bavuma on one, and captain Pat Cummins accounted for Tristan Stubbs (1) soon after to leave South Africa reeling at 86 for four at one stage.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-concussion-test-durban-test-sa-vs-aus-1791879905898">SA vs AUS 1st Test: Steve Smith takes field on day 5 following concussion scare in Durban</a>&nbsp;Mulder and Markram tried saving South Africa’s sinking ship on the fifth day but couldn’t hang on for longer, as Hazlewood returned to break the fifth-wicket stand and send Mulder packing on 29. Renshaw, who starred with the bat across two innings, including his career-best 190 in the first, picked up his second of the match to push South Africa’s back against the wall.&nbsp;A 45-run partnership between Markram and Jansen kept them alive until the second session, only for lanky quick Hazlewood to come back and pick his fourth in the second innings. He dismissed Jansen bowled on 35 off 54 balls. Simon Harmer was the next to depart on a duck before Mitchell Starc dismissed Markram to put the final nail in the coffin.&nbsp;Hazlewood picked up his sixth and final wicket of the innings to wrap up South Africa on 206 in 86.5 overs.&nbsp;“I think he gets a lot of wraps for how consistent he is, but I think that undersells him a little bit,” Cummins said of Hazlewood. “You can bowl him at any time with a new ball, obviously class, but with the reversing ball he's got so many skills, can get the speed gun up when he wants to as well. So captain's dream, I feel like I can bowl him at any stage.”<h3>Cummins praises Renshaw for Durban Test win</h3>Carrying his white-ball form into the Test side, Renshaw revived Australia’s first innings with a brilliant 190, with Cummins and Nathan Lyon providing a helping hand with the bat.&nbsp;Renshaw carried Australia on his back after they were reduced to 124/6 at one stage on day one, later guiding Australia to 390 in their first innings.&nbsp;Praising the left-hander and how his innings helped set the tone for Australia, Cummins said, “I think a lot of it was built on what Matty Renshaw did on day one as well. Got through that day, that first day, and then that got us ahead and managed to clinch and hold on to that lead for the rest of it.”

Josh Hazlewood's 6/49 and Matt Renshaw's all-round brilliance powered Australia to a 214-run win over South Africa, handing Temba Bavuma his first Test loss.

Josh Hazlewood bagged his best Test figures of 6/49 in the second innings, and Matt Renshaw scored 272 runs in the match and returned with two wickets to help Australia beat South Africa by 214 runs in the first Test in Durban. The win also accounted for Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma’s first defeat as the Test captain after 12 matches in charge. Even though Aiden Markram’s gritty outing, which lasted 237 balls for his 75, and contributions from David Bedingham (46), Marco Jansen (35) and Wiaan Mulder (29) kept South Africa afloat in the chase, Australia drew first blood on the fifth and final day in this three-match Test series. Chasing a massive 421 on a spicy Durban pitch, Hazlewood first removed opener Ryan Rickelton on two before Bedingham and Markram stitched a 66-run stand for the second wicket to stabilise South Africa’s chase. Hazlewood broke the stand before Renshaw dismissed Bavuma on one, and captain Pat Cummins accounted for Tristan Stubbs (1) soon after to leave South Africa reeling at 86 for four at one stage. Also read| SA vs AUS 1st Test: Steve Smith takes field on day 5 following concussion scare in Durban Mulder and Markram tried saving South Africa’s sinking ship on the fifth day but couldn’t hang on for longer, as Hazlewood returned to break the fifth-wicket stand and send Mulder packing on 29. Renshaw, who starred with the bat across two innings, including his career-best 190 in the first, picked up his second of the match to push South Africa’s back against the wall. A 45-run partnership between Markram and Jansen kept them alive until the second session, only for lanky quick Hazlewood to come back and pick his fourth in the second innings. He dismissed Jansen bowled on 35 off 54 balls. Simon Harmer was the next to depart on a duck before Mitchell Starc dismissed Markram to put the final nail in the coffin. Hazlewood picked up his sixth and final wicket of the innings to wrap up South Africa on 206 in 86.5 overs. “I think he gets a lot of wraps for how consistent he is, but I think that undersells him a little bit,” Cummins said of Hazlewood. “You can bowl him at any time with a new ball, obviously class, but with the reversing ball he's got so many skills, can get the speed gun up when he wants to as well. So captain's dream, I feel like I can bowl him at any stage.” Cummins praises Renshaw for Durban Test win Carrying his white-ball form into the Test side, Renshaw revived Australia’s first innings with a brilliant 190, with Cummins and Nathan Lyon providing a helping hand with the bat. Renshaw carried Australia on his back after they were reduced to 124/6 at one stage on day one, later guiding Australia to 390 in their first innings. Praising the left-hander and how his innings helped set the tone for Australia, Cummins said, “I think a lot of it was built on what Matty Renshaw did on day one as well. Got through that day, that first day, and then that got us ahead and managed to clinch and hold on to that lead for the rest of it.”

Josh Hazlewood's 6/49 and Matt Renshaw's all-round brilliance powered Australia to a 214-run win over South Africa, handing Temba Bavuma his first Test loss.

SA vs AUS: Hazlewood, Renshaw star as Australia hand Bavuma first defeat as Test captain in Durban

From Travis Head to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Joe Root, Steve Smith and Temba Bavuma

From Travis Head to Harry Brook, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026. This list also includes Joe Root, Steve Smith and Temba Bavuma.

Meet top 5 batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2026 - check who sits at the top

South African Test captain Temba Bavuma has broken his silence on the unsavoury incident involving a ‘dwarf’ remark made by ace Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah during the concluded Test series in November. Midway through a review discussion for an LBW call on Bavuma during the first Test in Kolkata, Bumrah and keeper-batter Rishabh Pant referred to him as a dwarf, with the stump mic picking it up, and the matter getting escalated on social media. However, even before the two Indians involved were made aware of the damage done by that remark, both approached Bavuma and apologised to him after the day’s play.&nbsp;Bavuma said that although he didn’t hear what Bumrah and Pant discussed during the review discussion in the middle, he understood that something was being murmured in their native language, which he didn’t understand but had to check up with the media manager afterwards. The right-handed batter admitted letting the matter go and having no ifs about it.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-hazare-trophy-virat-kohli-goes-past-sachin-tendulkar-rohit-sharma-equals-david-warner-tally-in-record-outing-1766578318803">Vijay Hazare Trophy: Kohli goes past Sachin, Rohit equals Warner’s tally in record outing</a> &nbsp;“I know from my side, there was an incident where they said something in their language about me. At the end of the day, two senior players, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, came and apologised. When the apology was made, I was in the dark about what it was about; I hadn’t heard it at the time, and I needed to check in with our media manager about it. What happens on the field stays on the field, but you don’t forget what is said. You use it as fuel and motivation, but there are no grudges per se,” Bavuma wrote in a column for ‘ESPNcricinfo’.<h3>Bavuma on Conrad’s remarks</h3>The series, won by South Africa, was also marred by off-field remarks, including one made by South Africa coach Shukri Conrad, during a presser in the second Test in Guwahati. Conrad used the word ‘grovel’, leading to comparisons with Tony Grieg’s infamous comments with racist connotations during the series against the West Indies. Conard, however, apologised for his remarks later, admitting he could have used another word for that, something Bavuma also echoed. &nbsp;“Shukri also took some heat for his 'grovel' remark. I was put under pressure by the media on that side, asking me to clarify the comments that were made. I thought Shukri was the man best positioned to give context to it all. The first time I heard about it, it had that unsavoury taste to it, but I think it just reminded me how tough and competitive the Test series was and what it meant to certain individuals within the group. Shukri spoke after the ODI series and put that issue to bed. In hindsight, he said he could have chosen a better word, and I agree with him,” he said.

Bavuma-led South Africa clean-swept India on their home turf during the concluded two-match Test series in November. 

South African Test captain Temba Bavuma has broken his silence on the unsavoury incident involving a ‘dwarf’ remark made by ace Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah during the concluded Test series in November. Midway through a review discussion for an LBW call on Bavuma during the first Test in Kolkata, Bumrah and keeper-batter Rishabh Pant referred to him as a dwarf, with the stump mic picking it up, and the matter getting escalated on social media. However, even before the two Indians involved were made aware of the damage done by that remark, both approached Bavuma and apologised to him after the day’s play. Bavuma said that although he didn’t hear what Bumrah and Pant discussed during the review discussion in the middle, he understood that something was being murmured in their native language, which he didn’t understand but had to check up with the media manager afterwards. The right-handed batter admitted letting the matter go and having no ifs about it. Also read | Vijay Hazare Trophy: Kohli goes past Sachin, Rohit equals Warner’s tally in record outing “I know from my side, there was an incident where they said something in their language about me. At the end of the day, two senior players, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, came and apologised. When the apology was made, I was in the dark about what it was about; I hadn’t heard it at the time, and I needed to check in with our media manager about it. What happens on the field stays on the field, but you don’t forget what is said. You use it as fuel and motivation, but there are no grudges per se,” Bavuma wrote in a column for ‘ESPNcricinfo’. Bavuma on Conrad’s remarks The series, won by South Africa, was also marred by off-field remarks, including one made by South Africa coach Shukri Conrad, during a presser in the second Test in Guwahati. Conrad used the word ‘grovel’, leading to comparisons with Tony Grieg’s infamous comments with racist connotations during the series against the West Indies. Conard, however, apologised for his remarks later, admitting he could have used another word for that, something Bavuma also echoed. “Shukri also took some heat for his 'grovel' remark. I was put under pressure by the media on that side, asking me to clarify the comments that were made. I thought Shukri was the man best positioned to give context to it all. The first time I heard about it, it had that unsavoury taste to it, but I think it just reminded me how tough and competitive the Test series was and what it meant to certain individuals within the group. Shukri spoke after the ODI series and put that issue to bed. In hindsight, he said he could have chosen a better word, and I agree with him,” he said.

Bavuma-led South Africa clean-swept India on their home turf during the concluded two-match Test series in November.&nbsp;

SA Test captain Bavuma breaks silence on ‘dwarf’ remark, reveals two senior Indian players apologised

After South Africa's remarkable victory over India in Kolkata at the Eden Gardens stadium on Sunday (November 16), skipper Temba Bavuma expressed his delight at the team's performance, crediting both his own half-century and a crucial catch in the field. The Proteas edged out India by 31 runs, with Temba Bavuma contributing a vital 50 runs and taking a crucial catch to dismiss Indian all-rounder Axar Patel. The win handed South Africa a 1-0 lead in the Test series.&nbsp;Bavuma reflected on the match, saying, “It’s always great to be part of such games, especially when you’re on the winning side. We fought hard, especially with the bat, knowing it would be a challenge. We capitalised when we needed to, and the bowlers brought us back into the contest. That partnership with Bosch, and a bit with Marco, gave us a boost to play better this morning.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ind-vs-sa-south-africa-rock-india-in-low-scoring-thriller-at-eden-gardens-take-1-0-lead-in-series-simon-harmer-1763281824492">IND vs SA: South Africa rock India in low-scoring thriller at Eden Gardens, take 1-0 lead in series</a>&nbsp;On his batting technique in challenging Indian conditions, the South African captain said, “I’ve worked on my game and come to India with the intention of improving. I know my record in these conditions hasn’t been great, but I’ve embraced the challenge. By adjusting my technique and staying aware of the conditions, I managed to contribute with the bat," he further added.&nbsp;Talking about the crucial moment when he caught Axar Patel, Bavuma shared, “It was a key moment in the game. Axar was in full flow, and we know that when the Indian batsmen get going, they become even more dangerous. Fortunately, I was able to hold onto the catch despite my ‘small hands.’ It’s those moments you want to grab, literally, and play your part for the team.”

IND vs SA, 1st Test: 'You want to be part of...', says SA skipper Temba Bavuma after emphatic win

After South Africa's remarkable victory over India in Kolkata at the Eden Gardens stadium on Sunday (November 16), skipper Temba Bavuma expressed his delight at the team's performance, crediting both his own half-century and a crucial catch in the field. The Proteas edged out India by 31 runs, with Temba Bavuma contributing a vital 50 runs and taking a crucial catch to dismiss Indian all-rounder Axar Patel. The win handed South Africa a 1-0 lead in the Test series. Bavuma reflected on the match, saying, “It’s always great to be part of such games, especially when you’re on the winning side. We fought hard, especially with the bat, knowing it would be a challenge. We capitalised when we needed to, and the bowlers brought us back into the contest. That partnership with Bosch, and a bit with Marco, gave us a boost to play better this morning.” Also Read: IND vs SA: South Africa rock India in low-scoring thriller at Eden Gardens, take 1-0 lead in series On his batting technique in challenging Indian conditions, the South African captain said, “I’ve worked on my game and come to India with the intention of improving. I know my record in these conditions hasn’t been great, but I’ve embraced the challenge. By adjusting my technique and staying aware of the conditions, I managed to contribute with the bat," he further added. Talking about the crucial moment when he caught Axar Patel, Bavuma shared, “It was a key moment in the game. Axar was in full flow, and we know that when the Indian batsmen get going, they become even more dangerous. Fortunately, I was able to hold onto the catch despite my ‘small hands.’ It’s those moments you want to grab, literally, and play your part for the team.”

Temba Bavuma's fifty and a crucial catch helped South Africa defeat India by 31 runs in Kolkata, giving the Proteas a 1-0 lead in the Test series

From Quinton de Kock to Rassie van der Dussen, here's a look at the top five South African batters fastest to 1000 ODI runs. This list also includes Temba Bavuma, Hashim Amla and Peter Kirsten

From Quinton de Kock to Rassie van der Dussen, here's a look at the top five South African batters fastest to 1000 ODI runs. This list also includes Temba Bavuma, Hashim Amla and Peter Kirsten

Meet top 5 South African batters fastest to 1000 runs in ODIs

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma believes a Test series win in India would be the team’s biggest achievement after lifting the World Test Championship (WTC) trophy earlier this year. The Proteas haven’t tasted Test success on Indian soil since 2010, but they’re determined to change that when the two-match series begins at Eden Gardens on Friday, November 14. Under Bavuma’s captaincy, South Africa have been unbeaten in the format, winning nine out of ten Tests, with one ending in a rain-forced draw. The skipper admitted that conquering India remains one of their top ambitions, given the country’s challenging conditions and India’s formidable home record. “Obviously, winning the World Test Championship, not much can top that. But second to that would be winning in India. It’s something we haven’t managed for a long time, so it’s definitely high on our list of ambitions,” Bavuma said before the series opener.&nbsp;Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lucknow-super-giants-trade-shardul-thakur-to-mumbai-indians-ahead-of-ipl-2026-1763030663376"> Double boost for Mumbai Indians as they add THESE two crucial all-rounders ahead of IPL 2026</a>&nbsp;The Proteas have lost seven straight Tests in India over their last three tours, but Bavuma is confident that his side, which hasn’t lost a full-strength Test series since coach Shukri Conrad took charge in 2023, has the skill and maturity to put up a strong fight. “We understand the magnitude of the challenge. Some of us have experienced the hurt before, so we know what it’s about. Looking at both teams, there’s a lot of talent, India have fantastic players, though a bit of inexperience, and it’s similar with our side. The guys are eager to test themselves against the best,” he said. Adding a touch of humour, Bavuma recalled his recent chat with New Zealand star Kane Williamson, whose team famously whitewashed India 3–0 last year. “I met Kane at an awards evening in Mumbai and asked for tips on how to win in India. He just said, ‘Make sure you win the toss.’ So, I’ve been practising that,” Bavuma laughed. South Africa’s only Test series win in India came back in 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Since then, they’ve drawn two and lost three series. Now, under Bavuma’s leadership, the Proteas will aim to finally end their 25-year wait for a series victory in India.

The defending WTC champions are set to face India in a two-match Test series, with the opening Test kicking off on Friday (Nov 14) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.


South Africa captain Temba Bavuma believes a Test series win in India would be the team’s biggest achievement after lifting the World Test Championship (WTC) trophy earlier this year. The Proteas haven’t tasted Test success on Indian soil since 2010, but they’re determined to change that when the two-match series begins at Eden Gardens on Friday, November 14. Under Bavuma’s captaincy, South Africa have been unbeaten in the format, winning nine out of ten Tests, with one ending in a rain-forced draw. The skipper admitted that conquering India remains one of their top ambitions, given the country’s challenging conditions and India’s formidable home record. “Obviously, winning the World Test Championship, not much can top that. But second to that would be winning in India. It’s something we haven’t managed for a long time, so it’s definitely high on our list of ambitions,” Bavuma said before the series opener. Also read | Double boost for Mumbai Indians as they add THESE two crucial all-rounders ahead of IPL 2026 The Proteas have lost seven straight Tests in India over their last three tours, but Bavuma is confident that his side, which hasn’t lost a full-strength Test series since coach Shukri Conrad took charge in 2023, has the skill and maturity to put up a strong fight. “We understand the magnitude of the challenge. Some of us have experienced the hurt before, so we know what it’s about. Looking at both teams, there’s a lot of talent, India have fantastic players, though a bit of inexperience, and it’s similar with our side. The guys are eager to test themselves against the best,” he said. Adding a touch of humour, Bavuma recalled his recent chat with New Zealand star Kane Williamson, whose team famously whitewashed India 3–0 last year. “I met Kane at an awards evening in Mumbai and asked for tips on how to win in India. He just said, ‘Make sure you win the toss.’ So, I’ve been practising that,” Bavuma laughed. South Africa’s only Test series win in India came back in 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Since then, they’ve drawn two and lost three series. Now, under Bavuma’s leadership, the Proteas will aim to finally end their 25-year wait for a series victory in India.

The defending WTC champions are set to face India in a two-match Test series, with the opening Test kicking off on Friday (Nov 14) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

IND VS SA: Winning in India will be ..': Temba Bavuma ahead of Kolkata Test

The 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) winners, South Africa, named a potent 15-man squad for their away tour of India starting December 14. Temba Bavuma, who led the side to their first ICC title in 27 years, has recovered from a calf strain he sustained in England in September and returns to captain his team in the two-match Test series. Having missed out on the ongoing away Pakistan tour, including the concluded two Tests and the forthcoming ODI series starting this week, Bavuma will captain the South Africa A team in a First-Class game in Bengaluru ahead of the series.&nbsp;Bavuma’s return is one of the changes to the Test squad that drew the away series (1-1) in Pakistan; he comes back at the expense of batter David Bedingham, who did not play any part against Pakistan. The middle-order batter has played 15 Tests, scoring four fifties and a hundred; before his 82 against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, he went a dozen innings without a fifty.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-shreyas-iyer-suffers-internal-bleeding-due-to-rib-cage-injury-being-monitored-in-sydney-hospital-bcci-1761553873092">Shreyas Iyer suffers internal bleeding due to rib cage injury; being monitored in Sydney hospital: BCCI</a> &nbsp;However, with several other youngsters among those performing, Bedingham’s place was under the scanner. &nbsp;Meanwhile, South Africa retained their three specialist spinners, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy, all of whom played and performed in Pakistan. Barring them, the off-spinner, Prenelan Subreyen, who played ahead of Maharaj in the first Test as the left-armer was recovering from a groin strain, has been dropped. In the pace bowling department, Kagiso Rabada, Corbin Bosch and Marco Jansen lead the attack, with no Lungi Ngidi, who also missed the Pakistan tour. &nbsp;The two-match Test series begins at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on December 14, and the second game moves to the east in Guwahati, starting November 22. Before the Test series, the Proteas will play three ODIs and five T20Is.<h3>South Africa squad for India Tests - &nbsp;</h3>Temba Bavuma (captain), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Dewald Brevis, Zubayr Hamza, Tony de Zorzi, Corbin Bosch, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada and Simon Harmer

South Africa retained their three specialist spinners, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy, all of whom played and performed in Pakistan. 

The 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) winners, South Africa, named a potent 15-man squad for their away tour of India starting December 14. Temba Bavuma, who led the side to their first ICC title in 27 years, has recovered from a calf strain he sustained in England in September and returns to captain his team in the two-match Test series. Having missed out on the ongoing away Pakistan tour, including the concluded two Tests and the forthcoming ODI series starting this week, Bavuma will captain the South Africa A team in a First-Class game in Bengaluru ahead of the series. Bavuma’s return is one of the changes to the Test squad that drew the away series (1-1) in Pakistan; he comes back at the expense of batter David Bedingham, who did not play any part against Pakistan. The middle-order batter has played 15 Tests, scoring four fifties and a hundred; before his 82 against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, he went a dozen innings without a fifty. Also read | Shreyas Iyer suffers internal bleeding due to rib cage injury; being monitored in Sydney hospital: BCCI However, with several other youngsters among those performing, Bedingham’s place was under the scanner. Meanwhile, South Africa retained their three specialist spinners, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy, all of whom played and performed in Pakistan. Barring them, the off-spinner, Prenelan Subreyen, who played ahead of Maharaj in the first Test as the left-armer was recovering from a groin strain, has been dropped. In the pace bowling department, Kagiso Rabada, Corbin Bosch and Marco Jansen lead the attack, with no Lungi Ngidi, who also missed the Pakistan tour. The two-match Test series begins at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on December 14, and the second game moves to the east in Guwahati, starting November 22. Before the Test series, the Proteas will play three ODIs and five T20Is. South Africa squad for India Tests - Temba Bavuma (captain), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Dewald Brevis, Zubayr Hamza, Tony de Zorzi, Corbin Bosch, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada and Simon Harmer

South Africa retained their three specialist spinners, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy, all of whom played and performed in Pakistan.&nbsp;

WTC champions South Africa announce squad for India Tests; has Bavuma returned? Check out team

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2025. This list also includes Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Temba Bavuma

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2025. This list also includes Kane Williamson, Joe Root and Temba Bavuma

From Harry Brook to Steve Smith, top 5 batters in latest ICC Test rankings 2025

From Temba Bavuma to Imran Khan, meet 5 Oldest Captains to win an ICC Trophy

Cricket has had heroes from all walks of life, but there were those for whom the success came late. Here’s a look at the five oldest captains to win an ICC trophy.

From Temba Bavuma to Imran Khan, meet 5 oldest captains to win an ICC trophy

One of the two unbeaten streaks was always supposed to end with the conclusion of the WTC Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia. The one-off contest at the Mecca of Cricket, Lord’s, saw one prevailing over the other as South African captain Temba Bavuma stood tall with his ‘unbeaten streak’.<h2>What was the streak? &nbsp;</h2>For the fun factor, and perhaps more significantly, in this game’s context, either Bavuma or Josh Hazlewood had to concede their respective winning streaks; however, with South Africa beating Australia for their maiden WTC crown by five wickets, Temba had the last laugh. &nbsp;South African captain Bavuma has won all the Tests he has captained - nine in total to date, starting from 2023. Although the Proteas had lost a few Tests during this window, Bavuma was not the team captain in any of them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2025-aus-vs-sa-temba-bavuma-dedicates-maiden-crown-to-doubters-hails-aiden-markram-for-historic-feat-australia-lords-1749912274018">South Africa captain Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Rabada, Markram for historic feat</a> &nbsp;On the other hand, Hazlewood had a unique ‘unbeaten finals streak’ to his name before this game, having won all finals he participated in, including winning this year’s IPL with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – also their maiden title. However, with Australia losing their fourth ICC final across formats (to date), his streak is now over. &nbsp;Here is the list of captains with the most Test wins in their first 10 matches –&nbsp; &nbsp;<ul><li>9 - Percy Chapman (1926-30)</li><li>9 - Temba Bavuma (2023-25)</li><li>8 - Johnny Douglas (1911-14)</li><li>8 - Warwick Armstrong (1920-21)</li><li>8 - Lindsay Hassett (1949-51)</li><li>8 - Waqar Younis (1993-02)</li><li>8 - Ricky Ponting (2004-05)</li><li>8 - Ben Stokes (2020-22)</li></ul><h3>‘Need a bit of luck’ – Markram &nbsp;</h3>While chasing 282, Markram stood out for the Proteas, scoring a match-winning 136 in the fourth innings, with Bavuma hitting an excellent 66. The pair stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a historic five-wicket win in the WTC Final.&nbsp; &nbsp;Speaking on his performance, the Player of the Final said, “Weird how things work out if you get a duck in the first innings and you come into the second innings with quite a few concerns.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Ultimately, you need a bit of luck here and there and spend some time in the middle and find some runs. I'm just really grateful it worked out nicely. Lord's is the place every Test cricketer wants to play.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Playing a final here is incredibly special with all the members there, but also plenty of South African fans that made the trip and plenty at home as well that have supported us through it. It was one of the most special days,” he said.&nbsp;

WTC Final: ‘Unbeaten’ Bavuma breaks Hazlewood’s ‘finals streak’ | Know how

One of the two unbeaten streaks was always supposed to end with the conclusion of the WTC Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia. The one-off contest at the Mecca of Cricket, Lord’s, saw one prevailing over the other as South African captain Temba Bavuma stood tall with his ‘unbeaten streak’. What was the streak? For the fun factor, and perhaps more significantly, in this game’s context, either Bavuma or Josh Hazlewood had to concede their respective winning streaks; however, with South Africa beating Australia for their maiden WTC crown by five wickets, Temba had the last laugh. South African captain Bavuma has won all the Tests he has captained - nine in total to date, starting from 2023. Although the Proteas had lost a few Tests during this window, Bavuma was not the team captain in any of them. Also read | South Africa captain Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Rabada, Markram for historic feat On the other hand, Hazlewood had a unique ‘unbeaten finals streak’ to his name before this game, having won all finals he participated in, including winning this year’s IPL with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – also their maiden title. However, with Australia losing their fourth ICC final across formats (to date), his streak is now over. Here is the list of captains with the most Test wins in their first 10 matches – 9 - Percy Chapman (1926-30) 9 - Temba Bavuma (2023-25) 8 - Johnny Douglas (1911-14) 8 - Warwick Armstrong (1920-21) 8 - Lindsay Hassett (1949-51) 8 - Waqar Younis (1993-02) 8 - Ricky Ponting (2004-05) 8 - Ben Stokes (2020-22) ‘Need a bit of luck’ – Markram While chasing 282, Markram stood out for the Proteas, scoring a match-winning 136 in the fourth innings, with Bavuma hitting an excellent 66. The pair stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a historic five-wicket win in the WTC Final. Speaking on his performance, the Player of the Final said, “Weird how things work out if you get a duck in the first innings and you come into the second innings with quite a few concerns. “Ultimately, you need a bit of luck here and there and spend some time in the middle and find some runs. I'm just really grateful it worked out nicely. Lord's is the place every Test cricketer wants to play. “Playing a final here is incredibly special with all the members there, but also plenty of South African fans that made the trip and plenty at home as well that have supported us through it. It was one of the most special days,” he said.

For the fun factor, and perhaps more significantly, in this game’s context, either Bavuma or Josh Hazlewood had to concede their respective winning streaks.&nbsp;

WTC Final: ‘Unbeaten’ Bavuma breaks Hazlewood’s ‘finals streak’ as Proteas end ICC trophy drought

Temba Bavuma said some doubters questioned South Africa’s route to the WTC final, where they beat the defending champions Australia to lift their maiden crown on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's, dedicating this victory to them. The Proteas scripted history by winning the third edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) - their second in major cricket tournaments and first since 1998 - when they won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy title.&nbsp;Bavuma was at the heart of the run chase at Lord's, and alongside the centurion and the Player of the Final, Aiden Markram, both stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a brilliant five-wicket win in the WTC Final.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2025-australia-cricket-world-goes-crazy-over-south-africa-maiden-crown-check-reactions-1749904470997">Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, hails Bavuma - Check reactions</a> &nbsp;“Us a team, we got ourselves into the final; there were doubters with the route we took, supposedly beating weaker teams. This is for them. I'm sure the people back home will be celebrating,” Bavuma said at the post-match presentation. &nbsp;Hailing his batting partner (Markram) and his team’s ace quick Kagiso Rabada for their match-winning outings, Bavuma said, “KG (Kagiso Rabada) is a massive player; in a couple of years, he will be in the ICC Hall of Fame. He was under controversy, but he did what he does. Markram was unbelievable, stats are important, but the character is what we look at, and Aiden has that. Another massive player for us.” &nbsp;While Markram made this one-off Test about himself with his brilliant 136 in the fourth innings, Rabada was the one who prepared the base for everyone to pounce and celebrate on. The right-arm quick made it to the honours board (in the first innings) with his second five-for at the venue, also becoming only the second bowler to pick a five-wicket haul in a WTC Final. &nbsp;Meanwhile, during the chase, Bavuma suffered a hamstring injury but decided against retiring out, taking perhaps the bravest call during this contest. While he had Markram’s backing in doing so, the seasoned opener showered praises on his team captain for getting them across the winning line. &nbsp;“A lot of it came from him (Bavuma) - he has always led from the front, found a way to score runs, and those sort of knocks are something people will remember you for,” Markram said of Bavuma. &nbsp;Besides, across both innings, Bavuma was the second-highest run-scorer for the Proteas. While he scored 36 in the first innings, with David Bedingham top-scoring with a gritty 45, he hit a match-winning 66 in the second.&nbsp;

Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Markram for historic feat

Temba Bavuma said some doubters questioned South Africa’s route to the WTC final, where they beat the defending champions Australia to lift their maiden crown on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's, dedicating this victory to them. The Proteas scripted history by winning the third edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) - their second in major cricket tournaments and first since 1998 - when they won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy title. Bavuma was at the heart of the run chase at Lord's, and alongside the centurion and the Player of the Final, Aiden Markram, both stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a brilliant five-wicket win in the WTC Final. Also read | Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, hails Bavuma - Check reactions “Us a team, we got ourselves into the final; there were doubters with the route we took, supposedly beating weaker teams. This is for them. I'm sure the people back home will be celebrating,” Bavuma said at the post-match presentation. Hailing his batting partner (Markram) and his team’s ace quick Kagiso Rabada for their match-winning outings, Bavuma said, “KG (Kagiso Rabada) is a massive player; in a couple of years, he will be in the ICC Hall of Fame. He was under controversy, but he did what he does. Markram was unbelievable, stats are important, but the character is what we look at, and Aiden has that. Another massive player for us.” While Markram made this one-off Test about himself with his brilliant 136 in the fourth innings, Rabada was the one who prepared the base for everyone to pounce and celebrate on. The right-arm quick made it to the honours board (in the first innings) with his second five-for at the venue, also becoming only the second bowler to pick a five-wicket haul in a WTC Final. Meanwhile, during the chase, Bavuma suffered a hamstring injury but decided against retiring out, taking perhaps the bravest call during this contest. While he had Markram’s backing in doing so, the seasoned opener showered praises on his team captain for getting them across the winning line. “A lot of it came from him (Bavuma) - he has always led from the front, found a way to score runs, and those sort of knocks are something people will remember you for,” Markram said of Bavuma. Besides, across both innings, Bavuma was the second-highest run-scorer for the Proteas. While he scored 36 in the first innings, with David Bedingham top-scoring with a gritty 45, he hit a match-winning 66 in the second.

Bavuma was at the heart of the run chase at Lord's, and alongside the centurion and the Player of the Final, Aiden Markram, both stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation of a brilliant five-wicket win in the WTC Final.&nbsp;

South Africa captain Bavuma dedicates maiden WTC crown to ‘doubters’, hails Rabada, Markram for historic feat

Having come close to claiming an ICC title on several occasions before, South Africa finally accomplished their most desired dream of winning a major world tournament. They <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2025-aus-vs-sa-lords-south-africa-beat-australia-to-clinch-first-icc-trophy-since-1998-1749899764038">defeated the defending WTC champions, Australia, by five wickets</a> on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's and were crowned the new World Test Championship winners.&nbsp;The South African dugout, their fans present at the venue, and the cricketing fraternity following this from all across hailed Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma for scripting history, with the internet going gaga over their first ICC title win in 27 years. &nbsp;Even last year against India in the T20 World Cup Final in Barbados, South Africa lost from a winning position, conceding the game in the final overs of the chase; they, however, corrected their mistakes and stood tall to claim their maiden WTC crown and their second major ICC title since winning the inaugural Champions Trophy edition in 1998. &nbsp;While they made headlines with a record chase at the venue, Proteas winning it also broke Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood’s unbeaten record in finals across all competitions. On the flip side, captain Bavuma maintained his unbeaten streak as the Test skipper. &nbsp;Chasing 282, South Africa lost a wicket early on but later stabilised the innings with two stand-out partnerships, including a 157-run stand for the third wicket between Aiden Markram and Bavuma, which propelled them to a historic victory.&nbsp;The cricket world was elated with South Africa’s win. Check out the best reactions.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">27 years, 27 long years, and South Africa has won an ICC trophy after a test for the ages This test had everything, but most of all it had Temba Bavuma &amp; Aiden Markram.&mdash; Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) <a href="https://twitter.com/joybhattacharj/status/1933855632064438374?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FINALly! 🥳💛 Congrats Proteas! 🇿🇦👏🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldTestChampionship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldTestChampionship</a> <a href="https://t.co/ewUANIt8Gt">pic.twitter.com/ewUANIt8Gt</a>&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1933859034198860043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">South Africa 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼&mdash; Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1933862767162785892?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ProteasMenCSA</a> .. everything went right from the toss already .. enjoy the celebrations 🥂🥂🥂 👏&mdash; Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) <a href="https://twitter.com/hershybru/status/1933855370432385464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jubilation for South Africa! 🇿🇦🎉 Congratulations to the newly crowned World Test Champions!👏 A nation that has given so much to the game finally gets its long overdue moment of glory.❤️ Thoroughly deserved. Truly special.🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC2025</a>&mdash; Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) <a href="https://twitter.com/malinga_ninety9/status/1933858611471470849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Test cricket continues to weave its magic. In a final where every session had its own story, <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ProteasMenCSA</a> found calm in the storm. Markram’s composure and Bavuma’s grit under pressure stood tall in the fourth innings. A century that will be remembered, a partnership that…&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1933866344052576506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">HOME!!!!! 🏆&mdash; Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaleSteyn62/status/1933853351860675021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lord Bavuma 🙇‍♂️ It’s time for Africa 🫡 <a href="https://t.co/mKTBEiK4Ex">pic.twitter.com/mKTBEiK4Ex</a>&mdash; Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1933854462881440196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Congratulations to the entire cricket fraternity in South Africa. Richly deserved and long time coming! 🏆🇿🇦 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WtcFinal2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WtcFinal2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAus</a>&mdash; Chetan Narula (@chetannarula) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetannarula/status/1933853982557933709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">One of the most phenomenally responsible, nerveless 4th innings centuries in the game from Aiden Markram. Fitting that the former ICCU19World Cup winning captain &amp; (K G Rabada) helps guide Temba Bavuma’s team to the 🌈 Nation’s greatest cricketing moment. ICC WTC Champs 2025.&mdash; Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi/status/1933850308045648037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bosh and Boom 💥 What a win for <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ProteasMenCSA</a> they have out skilled and out wanted the Australians. tremendously led by Temba Bavuma. They’re a team that shows how powerful purpose, passion and belief are in shaping the path to a trophy. A glorious day for South Africa&mdash; Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) <a href="https://twitter.com/KumarSanga2/status/1933853674469576817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, check reactions

Having come close to claiming an ICC title on several occasions before, South Africa finally accomplished their most desired dream of winning a major world tournament. They defeated the defending WTC champions, Australia, by five wickets on Saturday (June 14) at Lord's and were crowned the new World Test Championship winners. The South African dugout, their fans present at the venue, and the cricketing fraternity following this from all across hailed Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma for scripting history, with the internet going gaga over their first ICC title win in 27 years. Even last year against India in the T20 World Cup Final in Barbados, South Africa lost from a winning position, conceding the game in the final overs of the chase; they, however, corrected their mistakes and stood tall to claim their maiden WTC crown and their second major ICC title since winning the inaugural Champions Trophy edition in 1998. While they made headlines with a record chase at the venue, Proteas winning it also broke Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood’s unbeaten record in finals across all competitions. On the flip side, captain Bavuma maintained his unbeaten streak as the Test skipper. Chasing 282, South Africa lost a wicket early on but later stabilised the innings with two stand-out partnerships, including a 157-run stand for the third wicket between Aiden Markram and Bavuma, which propelled them to a historic victory. The cricket world was elated with South Africa’s win. Check out the best reactions.

Chasing 282, South Africa lost a wicket early on but later stabilised the innings with two stand-out partnerships, including a 157-run stand for the third wicket between Aiden Markram and Bavuma, which propelled them to a historic victory.

Cricket world goes crazy over South Africa’s maiden WTC crown, hails Bavuma - Check reactions

Aiden Markram's superb century on Friday left South Africa on the brink of a dramatic victory in the World Test Championship final against Australia after decades of heartbreak in major tournaments.South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing.Opener Markram, dismissed for a duck in the first innings, was 102 not out and South Africa captain Temba Bavuma unbeaten on 65 despite spending most of his innings limping with a hamstring injury.The pair have shared an unbroken stand of 143 as South Africa pursue &nbsp;what will be, if they achieve it, the second-highest successful run chase in a Test at Lord's.The highest chase was the 344 made by the West Indies in 1984.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cursed-in-t20-final-shreyas-iyer-loses-second-tournament-final-as-skipper-in-10-days-1749816867919">Cursed in T20 final? Shreyas Iyer loses second tournament final as skipper in 10 days</a>But South Africa, whose last International Cricket Council title came at the 1998 ICC Knockout, have such a long history of folding under pressure that their supporters will not be taking anything for granted against serial winners and WTC title-holders Australia.Australia's Mitchell Starc had starred earlier Friday with both bat and ball to put his team in charge.The tailender made 58 not out in Australia's second-innings total of 207 and then, in his main role of left-arm fast bowler, dismissed Ryan Rickelton (six) and Wiaan Mulder (27) to leave the Proteas 70-2.Starc almost had a third wicket when Bavuma got a thick edge only for Smith, in a helmet at an advanced slip position, to drop a fast-travelling catch and leave the field with a finger injury.But with any early moisture in the surface long gone, conditions for batting at a sun-drenched Lord's were now as good as at any time in the match.Markram ton Markram, aggressive from the outset, punched and pulled Australia captain Pat Cummins for well-struck fours.With Australia appearing to miss absent former captain Smith's tactical input, Bavuma produced the occasional gem of a shot, including a glorious drive down the ground off Cummins.Australia spinner Nathan Lyon almost dismissed both batsmen, with Markram aiming a booming drive at a sharply turning off-break, only to miss the ball completely before it also beat wicketkeeper Alex Carey.Bavuma had made 43 when a slog-sweep off Lyon just evaded a diving Sam Konstas at deep midwicket as the substitute fielder attempted to pull off a low catch only for the ball to run away for four.Soon afterwards, the diminutive Bavuma, who has a history of hamstring trouble, completed a gritty 83-ball fifty.Markram went to 97 with a brilliant straight-driven boundary off Josh Hazlewood and, shortly before stumps, clipped the fast bowler through midwicket to complete his hundred with an 11th four in 156 balls faced.It was only the 30-year-old's eighth hundred in 84 Test innings.Earlier Friday South Africa enjoyed an early breakthrough when Kagiso Rabada had Nathan Lyon plumb lbw to leave Australia 148-9 in their second innings.But tailender Starc, dropped in the gully on 14 by Marco Jansen late on the Thursday, kept the Proteas at bay, ably assisted by Hazlewood, reaching the 11th fifty of his 97-Test career.Part-time spinner Markram eventually succeeded where the frontline bowlers had failed when Hazlewood holed out to end a 59-run partnership for the last wicket.Paceman Rabada took 4-59 to finish with nine wickets in the match.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing.

Aiden Markram's superb century on Friday left South Africa on the brink of a dramatic victory in the World Test Championship final against Australia after decades of heartbreak in major tournaments. South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing. Opener Markram, dismissed for a duck in the first innings, was 102 not out and South Africa captain Temba Bavuma unbeaten on 65 despite spending most of his innings limping with a hamstring injury. The pair have shared an unbroken stand of 143 as South Africa pursue what will be, if they achieve it, the second-highest successful run chase in a Test at Lord's. The highest chase was the 344 made by the West Indies in 1984. Also Read - Cursed in T20 final? Shreyas Iyer loses second tournament final as skipper in 10 days But South Africa, whose last International Cricket Council title came at the 1998 ICC Knockout, have such a long history of folding under pressure that their supporters will not be taking anything for granted against serial winners and WTC title-holders Australia. Australia's Mitchell Starc had starred earlier Friday with both bat and ball to put his team in charge. The tailender made 58 not out in Australia's second-innings total of 207 and then, in his main role of left-arm fast bowler, dismissed Ryan Rickelton (six) and Wiaan Mulder (27) to leave the Proteas 70-2. Starc almost had a third wicket when Bavuma got a thick edge only for Smith, in a helmet at an advanced slip position, to drop a fast-travelling catch and leave the field with a finger injury. But with any early moisture in the surface long gone, conditions for batting at a sun-drenched Lord's were now as good as at any time in the match. Markram ton Markram, aggressive from the outset, punched and pulled Australia captain Pat Cummins for well-struck fours. With Australia appearing to miss absent former captain Smith's tactical input, Bavuma produced the occasional gem of a shot, including a glorious drive down the ground off Cummins. Australia spinner Nathan Lyon almost dismissed both batsmen, with Markram aiming a booming drive at a sharply turning off-break, only to miss the ball completely before it also beat wicketkeeper Alex Carey. Bavuma had made 43 when a slog-sweep off Lyon just evaded a diving Sam Konstas at deep midwicket as the substitute fielder attempted to pull off a low catch only for the ball to run away for four. Soon afterwards, the diminutive Bavuma, who has a history of hamstring trouble, completed a gritty 83-ball fifty. Markram went to 97 with a brilliant straight-driven boundary off Josh Hazlewood and, shortly before stumps, clipped the fast bowler through midwicket to complete his hundred with an 11th four in 156 balls faced. It was only the 30-year-old's eighth hundred in 84 Test innings. Earlier Friday South Africa enjoyed an early breakthrough when Kagiso Rabada had Nathan Lyon plumb lbw to leave Australia 148-9 in their second innings. But tailender Starc, dropped in the gully on 14 by Marco Jansen late on the Thursday, kept the Proteas at bay, ably assisted by Hazlewood, reaching the 11th fifty of his 97-Test career. Part-time spinner Markram eventually succeeded where the frontline bowlers had failed when Hazlewood holed out to end a 59-run partnership for the last wicket. Paceman Rabada took 4-59 to finish with nine wickets in the match. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing.

WTC Final, Day 3: Markram, Bavuma take South Africa near to glory vs Australia

The Ultimate Test is scheduled to take place at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London from June 11, 2025, where South Africa will take on defending champions Australia in what promises to be a high-intensity clash. Sports

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (15 May) has announced a massive prize pool for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final, with the winners to earn $3.6 million (₹30.80 crore approx) and the runners-up will bag $2.16 million (₹18.48 crore approx). This marks a 125 percent increase for the champions' prize money and a whopping 162.5 percent jump for the runners-up from the previous editions. Earlier, the winners of both the 2021 and 2023 WTC finals received $1.6 million (₹13.3 crore), while the runners-up got $ 800,000 (₹6.6 crore). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jay Shah (@jayshah220988) The Ultimate Test is scheduled to take place at the iconic Lord’s Stadium in London from June 11, 2025, where South Africa will take on defending champions Australia in what promises to be a high-intensity clash. Also Read | ENG vs IND 2025: No clear choice for India's Test captaincy yet as selectors unsure of Gill, dicey over Bumrah - Report South Africa booked their place in the final after topping the WTC25 standings, powered by series wins over Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, and a drawn series against India. Australia, on the other hand, sealed their final spot with a 3-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph over India, alongside strong performances against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand. ICC Chairman Jay Shah expressed excitement at the announcement. He was quoted saying, “We have witnessed a very interesting third cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, where the finalists were decided only towards the end of the competition. The championship has showcased remarkable performances from players of different teams, culminating in a final between these two exceptional squads - a true celebration of cricket.” South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma shared his words on the announcement. “We’re pleased to have made it. It’s a big chance for us to win an ICC title. Lord’s is the perfect stage, and we’ll give it our all,” as reported by ICC. Australia captain Pat Cummins added, “Defending our title at Lord’s is a huge honour. Credit goes to all who made this possible. We’re ready for the South African challenge,” the ICC said. The ICC has even posted a teaser to bring up the heat for the blockbuster clash starting on 11 June. A battle of wills, minds and hearts in the Ultimate Test 👊 The #WTC25 Final at Lord's is upon us 🏟 pic.twitter.com/JsNXpmgOXD — ICC (@ICC) May 15, 2025 With both teams eyeing glory, where South Africa is chasing their first ICC title and Australia aiming to become the first two-time WTC champions, the stage is all set for a blockbuster finale at the Home of Cricket. Below is the information on what the Top 10 teams will earn from this WTC cycle. Position Team Prize money in USD Winner Australia/South Africa 3,600,000 Runners-up Australia/South Africa 2,160,000 Third India 1,440,000 Fourth New Zealand 1,200,000 Fifth England 960,000 Sixth Sri Lanka 840,000 Seventh Bangladesh 720,000 Eighth West Indies 600,000 Ninth Pakistan 480,000

WTC Final: ICC announces Rs 17,00,00,000 hike in winner's prize money, runners-up to get nearly 162 percent more

South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma has lamented his and Rassie van der Dussen's wickets as the turning point for their loss in the Champions Trophy semi-final against New Zealand on Mar 5 in Lahore, Pakistan. Chasing the historic 363, SA choked again and lost the match by 50 runs after managing 312/9 in 50 overs.
"Ideally, you would've wanted the both of us to keep going - at least till the 30th over. We know how destructive our middle order can be when they're coming in that last 20 overs," Bavuma said at the post-match presentation.
"Unfortunately, we weren't able to set that foundation for them. Little bit of a soft dismissal, at least from my side. I think that just left too much for our middle order," he added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/aaqib-javed-is-a-clown-jason-gillespie-slams-pcb-coach-for-lying-after-pakistans-champions-trophy-exit-8821587">Jason Gillespie calls Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed a 'clown', slams him for lying</a>
After losing the first wicket for 20 runs, Bavuma (56) and van der Dussen (69) added 105 runs for the second wicket but the skipper's wicket in the 23rd over opened the game for the Kiwis. Bavuma also conceded that the 362-run target was 'above-par' and they'd have liked something close to 350.
"Yeah, look, I do think it [target] was above par. I think as well as they bat, we felt that if [the target was] anything around 350 - not over 350 - we'd back ourselves to chase the score with the wicket hopefully getting better," Bavuma said.&nbsp;
"But yeah, 360 was always going to be tough. It was always going to require someone to play well. We had David who did that, but we probably needed someone else as well," he added.
David Miller, who scored unbeaten 100 off 67 balls, also came under scrutiny for changing gears too late in the chase. He was 52 off 49 balls at one point and went on to score the next 48 runs in about 18 balls - getting everybody talking about why not attack before.
Nonetheless, New Zealand now face India in Champions Trophy 2025 Final on Mar 9 in Dubai.

After losing the first wicket for 20 runs, Bavuma (56) and van der Dussen (69) added 105 runs for the second wicket but the skipper's wicket in the 23rd over opened the game for the Kiwis.

South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma has lamented his and Rassie van der Dussen's wickets as the turning point for their loss in the Champions Trophy semi-final against New Zealand on Mar 5 in Lahore, Pakistan. Chasing the historic 363, SA choked again and lost the match by 50 runs after managing 312/9 in 50 overs. "Ideally, you would've wanted the both of us to keep going - at least till the 30th over. We know how destructive our middle order can be when they're coming in that last 20 overs," Bavuma said at the post-match presentation. "Unfortunately, we weren't able to set that foundation for them. Little bit of a soft dismissal, at least from my side. I think that just left too much for our middle order," he added. Also Read: Jason Gillespie calls Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed a 'clown', slams him for lying After losing the first wicket for 20 runs, Bavuma (56) and van der Dussen (69) added 105 runs for the second wicket but the skipper's wicket in the 23rd over opened the game for the Kiwis. Bavuma also conceded that the 362-run target was 'above-par' and they'd have liked something close to 350. "Yeah, look, I do think it [target] was above par. I think as well as they bat, we felt that if [the target was] anything around 350 - not over 350 - we'd back ourselves to chase the score with the wicket hopefully getting better," Bavuma said. "But yeah, 360 was always going to be tough. It was always going to require someone to play well. We had David who did that, but we probably needed someone else as well," he added. David Miller, who scored unbeaten 100 off 67 balls, also came under scrutiny for changing gears too late in the chase. He was 52 off 49 balls at one point and went on to score the next 48 runs in about 18 balls - getting everybody talking about why not attack before. Nonetheless, New Zealand now face India in Champions Trophy 2025 Final on Mar 9 in Dubai.

'Not over 350': SA skipper Bavuma says target was 'above-par' for them to chase in Champions Trophy semis vs NZ

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma acknowledged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kane-williamson">Kane Williamson</a>'s impact ahead of their ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> semi-final, calling him a 'thorn in our flesh'. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Bavuma said that his team has planned strategies to counter New Zealand&rsquo;s batting mainstay.
Williamson, who scored 81 in a losing effort against India in the final league match, has been in fine form against South Africa, having hit consecutive centuries, including an unbeaten 133 in Lahore last month during the tri-nation series.
"Yes, he (Williamson) has been a challenge for us, and we have specific plans in place. The key will be to raise our intensity when he comes to bat," Bavuma said. "However, execution will be crucial in the end.&rdquo;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/161-and-counting-india-virat-kohli-becomes-world-second-best-fielder-8781674">'161 and counting': India's Virat Kohli becomes world's second best fielder</a>
Despite New Zealand&rsquo;s recent loss to India in Dubai, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/temba-bavuma">Bavuma</a> dismissed any notion that it would dent their confidence. "They have performed strongly in Pakistan, winning all their matches there. They are a well-balanced side, so I don&rsquo;t think their defeat to India will affect them much," he added.
<h2>George Linde roped in as cover</h2>
When asked whether he would prefer to play the final in Lahore or Dubai, Bavuma acknowledged India's strong form in the tournament but maintained that his team is focused on the semi-final for now.
He also commented on the logistical challenges of South Africa and Australia having to travel to Dubai just to determine their semi-final venues. "It wasn&rsquo;t ideal, but there wasn&rsquo;t much we could do given the tournament&rsquo;s structure and logistics," he admitted.
Injury concerns continue to trouble South Africa, with Aiden Markram being the latest to suffer a hamstring strain. Left-arm spin all-rounder George Linde has been brought in as cover.
"Linde is here as a precaution, but Aiden will undergo a fitness test today. On a positive note, both Tony (de Zorzi) and I are feeling much better after our recent illness," Bavuma signed off.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Williamson, who scored 81 in a losing effort against India in the final league match, has been in fine form against South Africa, having hit consecutive centuries

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma acknowledged Kane Williamson's impact ahead of their ICC Champions Trophy semi-final, calling him a 'thorn in our flesh'. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Bavuma said that his team has planned strategies to counter New Zealand’s batting mainstay. Williamson, who scored 81 in a losing effort against India in the final league match, has been in fine form against South Africa, having hit consecutive centuries, including an unbeaten 133 in Lahore last month during the tri-nation series. "Yes, he (Williamson) has been a challenge for us, and we have specific plans in place. The key will be to raise our intensity when he comes to bat," Bavuma said. "However, execution will be crucial in the end.” Also Read: '161 and counting': India's Virat Kohli becomes world's second best fielder Despite New Zealand’s recent loss to India in Dubai, Bavuma dismissed any notion that it would dent their confidence. "They have performed strongly in Pakistan, winning all their matches there. They are a well-balanced side, so I don’t think their defeat to India will affect them much," he added. George Linde roped in as cover When asked whether he would prefer to play the final in Lahore or Dubai, Bavuma acknowledged India's strong form in the tournament but maintained that his team is focused on the semi-final for now. He also commented on the logistical challenges of South Africa and Australia having to travel to Dubai just to determine their semi-final venues. "It wasn’t ideal, but there wasn’t much we could do given the tournament’s structure and logistics," he admitted. Injury concerns continue to trouble South Africa, with Aiden Markram being the latest to suffer a hamstring strain. Left-arm spin all-rounder George Linde has been brought in as cover. "Linde is here as a precaution, but Aiden will undergo a fitness test today. On a positive note, both Tony (de Zorzi) and I are feeling much better after our recent illness," Bavuma signed off. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Ahead of semi-final, HERE is what SA skipper Bavuma said about NZ's Williamson

The highly anticipated ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 match between Australia and South Africa was abandoned without a toss due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi on Monday (Feb 25).
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> confirmed the washout on X, stating, "Incessant rain forces the Group B #ChampionsTrophy contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off." Continuous downpours since the morning left the ground staff with no opportunity to prepare the venue, forcing both teams to share a point each.
See the post from ICC here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Incessant rain forces the Group B <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off 🌧<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvSA</a> More ➡ <a href="https://t.co/yT4F7I2FDh">https://t.co/yT4F7I2FDh</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDPoRA9KmT">pic.twitter.com/jDPoRA9KmT</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1894362427162333482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-qualification-scenarios-explained-in-group-b-if-aus-sa-contest-gets-washed-out-8754988" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Qualification scenarios explained in Group B if Aus-SA contest gets washed out</a>
With this result, both Australia and South Africa now sit atop Group B with three points each. The washout has also turned Wednesday&rsquo;s match between Afghanistan and England into a virtual knockout, as the losing side will be eliminated from the tournament.
<h2>Pakistan, Bangladesh out</h2>
Meanwhile, in Group A, defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh were knocked out on Monday after New Zealand secured a five-wicket win to join India in the semi-finals.
Looking ahead, Australia will face Afghanistan on Friday at Lahore&rsquo;s Gaddafi Stadium, while South Africa will take on England in their final group-stage match on Saturday at Karachi&rsquo;s National Bank Stadium.
Australia started their campaign with a record-breaking 352-run chase against England, while South Africa registered a dominant 107-run win over Afghanistan in their opening fixture.
Squads: Australia squad: Matthew Short, Travis Head, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steven Smith</a> (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (w), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, Aaron Hardie, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tanveer Sangha South Africa squad: Ryan Rickelton (w), Tony de Zorzi, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/temba-bavuma">Temba Bavuma</a> (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, Heinrich Klaasen, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: South Africa and Australia are now on three points each. The washout has turned the clash between Afghanistan and England into a virtual knockout one

The highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match between Australia and South Africa was abandoned without a toss due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi on Monday (Feb 25). The ICC confirmed the washout on X, stating, "Incessant rain forces the Group B #ChampionsTrophy contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off." Continuous downpours since the morning left the ground staff with no opportunity to prepare the venue, forcing both teams to share a point each. See the post from ICC here: Incessant rain forces the Group B #ChampionsTrophy contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off 🌧#AUSvSA More ➡ https://t.co/yT4F7I2FDh pic.twitter.com/jDPoRA9KmT — ICC (@ICC) February 25, 2025 Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Qualification scenarios explained in Group B if Aus-SA contest gets washed out With this result, both Australia and South Africa now sit atop Group B with three points each. The washout has also turned Wednesday’s match between Afghanistan and England into a virtual knockout, as the losing side will be eliminated from the tournament. Pakistan, Bangladesh out Meanwhile, in Group A, defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh were knocked out on Monday after New Zealand secured a five-wicket win to join India in the semi-finals. Looking ahead, Australia will face Afghanistan on Friday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, while South Africa will take on England in their final group-stage match on Saturday at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. Australia started their campaign with a record-breaking 352-run chase against England, while South Africa registered a dominant 107-run win over Afghanistan in their opening fixture. Squads: Australia squad: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Steven Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (w), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, Aaron Hardie, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tanveer Sangha South Africa squad: Ryan Rickelton (w), Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, Heinrich Klaasen, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: AUS vs SA match washed out, points shared

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma ran out of luck just one ball after being saved by the DRS during their opening match in the Champions Trophy 2025 on Friday (Feb 21) against Afghanistan. Playing at the National Stadium in Karachi, Bavuma&rsquo;s luck was the talking point after he departed for a well-made 58. Mohammad Nabi on the other hand was delighted with the wicket as he got the better of Proteas captain having failed to do so on the previous delivery.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Bavuma runs out of luck<o:p></o:p></h2>
On the fourth ball of the 29th over, Bavuma tried to flick a shot on the leg side but he failed to judge the flight of the ball and was given LBW in Nabi&rsquo;s over. However, the decision was challenged by the South African captain upon which it was overturned by the third umpire. However, the 34-year-old&rsquo;s stay lasted just one ball as he was dismissed on the very next delivery as he tried to clear the ball over the mid-wicket and instead was caught by Sediqullah Atal. <o:p></o:p>
The wicket served as a moment of revenge for Nabi who had Bavuma dismissed on the previous delivery.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/yuzvendra-chahal-and-dhanashree-verma-reportedly-finalise-divorce-share-cryptic-posts-8743182" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma reportedly finalise divorce, share cryptic posts</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ryan Rickelton runs the show<o:p></o:p></h2>
South African batsmen were in full form with the bat on Friday with Ryan Rickelton slamming his maiden ODI ton against Afghanistan. The opening batter scored 103 off 106 before he was dismissed courtesy of a run out. His innings consisted of one six and seven fours and scored at a strike rate of almost 100. He along with Bavuma stitched a partnership of 129 runs for the second wicket before the latter was dismissed.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
At the time of writing, South Africa were 251/4 in 43 overs and looked on course for a total close to 300 runs. Aiden Markram (15) and David Miller (1) were in the middle with their eyes on a big total.

Sports, Cricket: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma ran out of luck just a ball after being saved by the DRS as the Proteas opened their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma ran out of luck just one ball after being saved by the DRS during their opening match in the Champions Trophy 2025 on Friday (Feb 21) against Afghanistan. Playing at the National Stadium in Karachi, Bavuma’s luck was the talking point after he departed for a well-made 58. Mohammad Nabi on the other hand was delighted with the wicket as he got the better of Proteas captain having failed to do so on the previous delivery. Bavuma runs out of luck On the fourth ball of the 29th over, Bavuma tried to flick a shot on the leg side but he failed to judge the flight of the ball and was given LBW in Nabi’s over. However, the decision was challenged by the South African captain upon which it was overturned by the third umpire. However, the 34-year-old’s stay lasted just one ball as he was dismissed on the very next delivery as he tried to clear the ball over the mid-wicket and instead was caught by Sediqullah Atal. The wicket served as a moment of revenge for Nabi who had Bavuma dismissed on the previous delivery. ALSO READ | Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma reportedly finalise divorce, share cryptic posts Ryan Rickelton runs the show South African batsmen were in full form with the bat on Friday with Ryan Rickelton slamming his maiden ODI ton against Afghanistan. The opening batter scored 103 off 106 before he was dismissed courtesy of a run out. His innings consisted of one six and seven fours and scored at a strike rate of almost 100. He along with Bavuma stitched a partnership of 129 runs for the second wicket before the latter was dismissed. At the time of writing, South Africa were 251/4 in 43 overs and looked on course for a total close to 300 runs. Aiden Markram (15) and David Miller (1) were in the middle with their eyes on a big total.

Champions Trophy 2025: Temba Bavuma runs out of luck after DRS overturns LBW appeal

South Africa opener Matthew Breetzke made history by becoming the first batter to score 150 runs on ODI debut in a tri-series match against New Zealand at the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The 26-year-old shattered a 47-year-old record previously held by West Indies&rsquo; Desmond Haynes, who had scored 148 on debut against Australia in 1978.
New Zealand captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-santner">Mitchell Santner</a> won his second successive toss and elected to field against an understrength South African side missing seven of its Champions Trophy players, who are set to arrive in Karachi later this week. Breetzke, who is not part of South Africa&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad, took full advantage of the opportunity and delivered a remarkable knock.
Watch the video here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Matthew Breetzke becomes the first player to score 1️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ on ODI debut 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/3Nations1Trophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#3Nations1Trophy</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/Idsm60lVCC">pic.twitter.com/Idsm60lVCC</a>
&mdash; Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1888865647465218426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote>

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He joined Colin Ingram, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/temba-bavuma">Temba Bavuma</a>, and Reeza Hendricks as the only South Africans to hit a century on ODI debut. Breetzke reached his half-century off 68 balls and continued his fluent stroke play, bringing up his hundred in 128 balls with a square cut off Will O&rsquo;Rourke. He then accelerated his scoring rate, surpassing Haynes&rsquo; record in just 20 additional balls. His 148-ball innings featured 11 fours and five sixes before he misread a slower delivery from Matt Henry and was caught at mid-off.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-bowler-becomes-a-bowler-says-ex-sri-lanka-skipper-atapattu-on-spin-track-strategy-by-pakistan-india-sri-lanka-vs-australia-8707304">Exclusive: 'No bowler becomes a bowler...,' says ex-Sri Lanka skipper Atapattu on spin-track strategy by sub-continent teams</a> South Africa, powered by Breetzke&rsquo;s brilliant 150, posted a competitive total of 304 for 6. His innings were well-supported by Jason Smith (41) and Wiaan Mulder (64 off 60 balls), who helped sustain the momentum. Breetzke and Smith shared a 93-run stand, while Mulder and Breetzke added another 131 runs in a solid middle-order effort.
<h2>Devon replaces injured Rachin</h2>
New Zealand&rsquo;s bowling attack had mixed results, with O&rsquo;Rourke (2-72) and Henry (2-59) picking up two wickets each. However, Ben Sears struggled, conceding 65 runs in his spell, including 20 runs in a single over against Breetzke.
New Zealand had to make a forced change as opening batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rachin-ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a> was replaced by Devon Conway. Ravindra suffered a blow to the forehead while fielding during New Zealand's 78-run victory over Pakistan in the first match of the series. He misjudged a routine catch of Khushdil Shah at deep mid-wicket, resulting in an injury that led to his absence.
Breetzke&rsquo;s historic knock announced his arrival on the international stage in grand fashion, though he remains outside South Africa&rsquo;s Champions Trophy plans. His innings provided a strong foundation for South Africa in the ongoing tri-series, showcasing the country&rsquo;s promising depth in batting talent.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: The 26-year-old shattered a 47-year-old record previously held by West Indies’ Desmond Haynes, who had scored 148 on debut against Australia in 1978

South Africa opener Matthew Breetzke made history by becoming the first batter to score 150 runs on ODI debut in a tri-series match against New Zealand at the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The 26-year-old shattered a 47-year-old record previously held by West Indies’ Desmond Haynes, who had scored 148 on debut against Australia in 1978. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won his second successive toss and elected to field against an understrength South African side missing seven of its Champions Trophy players, who are set to arrive in Karachi later this week. Breetzke, who is not part of South Africa’s Champions Trophy squad, took full advantage of the opportunity and delivered a remarkable knock. Watch the video here: Matthew Breetzke becomes the first player to score 1️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ on ODI debut 👌#3Nations1Trophy | #NZvSA pic.twitter.com/Idsm60lVCC — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 10, 2025 He joined Colin Ingram, Temba Bavuma, and Reeza Hendricks as the only South Africans to hit a century on ODI debut. Breetzke reached his half-century off 68 balls and continued his fluent stroke play, bringing up his hundred in 128 balls with a square cut off Will O’Rourke. He then accelerated his scoring rate, surpassing Haynes’ record in just 20 additional balls. His 148-ball innings featured 11 fours and five sixes before he misread a slower delivery from Matt Henry and was caught at mid-off. Also Read: Exclusive: 'No bowler becomes a bowler...,' says ex-Sri Lanka skipper Atapattu on spin-track strategy by sub-continent teams South Africa, powered by Breetzke’s brilliant 150, posted a competitive total of 304 for 6. His innings were well-supported by Jason Smith (41) and Wiaan Mulder (64 off 60 balls), who helped sustain the momentum. Breetzke and Smith shared a 93-run stand, while Mulder and Breetzke added another 131 runs in a solid middle-order effort. Devon replaces injured Rachin New Zealand’s bowling attack had mixed results, with O’Rourke (2-72) and Henry (2-59) picking up two wickets each. However, Ben Sears struggled, conceding 65 runs in his spell, including 20 runs in a single over against Breetzke. New Zealand had to make a forced change as opening batter Rachin Ravindra was replaced by Devon Conway. Ravindra suffered a blow to the forehead while fielding during New Zealand's 78-run victory over Pakistan in the first match of the series. He misjudged a routine catch of Khushdil Shah at deep mid-wicket, resulting in an injury that led to his absence. Breetzke’s historic knock announced his arrival on the international stage in grand fashion, though he remains outside South Africa’s Champions Trophy plans. His innings provided a strong foundation for South Africa in the ongoing tri-series, showcasing the country’s promising depth in batting talent. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand vs South Africa ODI: Matthew Breetzke scripts history, breaks 47-year-old record

South Africa have been dealt a blow ahead of the opening Test match against hosts Bangladesh after skipper Temba Bavuma was ruled out of the Dhaka contest on Friday (Oct 11). Bavuma is reportedly out due to a muscle strain but will still be part of the travelling contingent. On the other hand, Dewald Brevis ‘baby AB de Villiers’ has earned his maiden call-up to the Test side having previously played for the T20I side.

<h2>Bavuma out for Proteas</h2>

With the two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting on Monday (Oct 21), South Africa will be without their skipper Bavuma. The right-hand batter is enduring a pain in his muscle which will see him stay away from action. In his absence, Aiden Markram will lead the side against Bangladesh in the Dhaka Test.

The Proteas are eyeing vital points in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings with hopes of the final still in hand. Bangladesh on the other hand come into the series on the back of a defeat to India having lost the Test series 2-0 against Rohit Sharma’s men. They had earlier beaten Pakistan on their own turf in what was a historic win for the side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-ball-decision-pcb-roasted-for-ex-umpire-aleem-dars-appointment-in-selection-committee-766643">'No ball decision,' PCB roasted for ex-umpire Aleem Dar's appointment in selection committee</a>

<h2>Brevis earns maiden call-up</h2>

One of the talented young batters on the cards in South Africa, Brevis is on the Test side for the first time. The batter first came on the scene in the 2022 U-19 World Cup and helped South Africa reach the quarterfinal of the tournament. Brevis has previously represented South Africa in two T20I matches with a Test cap now likely for him.

<h2>South Africa squad:</h2>

Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Kyle Verreynne.&nbsp;

South Africa have been dealt a blow ahead of the opening Test match against hosts Bangladesh after skipper Temba Bavuma was ruled out of the Dhaka contest on Friday (Oct 11).

South Africa have been dealt a blow ahead of the opening Test match against hosts Bangladesh after skipper Temba Bavuma was ruled out of the Dhaka contest on Friday (Oct 11). Bavuma is reportedly out due to a muscle strain but will still be part of the travelling contingent. On the other hand, Dewald Brevis ‘baby AB de Villiers’ has earned his maiden call-up to the Test side having previously played for the T20I side. Bavuma out for Proteas With the two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting on Monday (Oct 21), South Africa will be without their skipper Bavuma. The right-hand batter is enduring a pain in his muscle which will see him stay away from action. In his absence, Aiden Markram will lead the side against Bangladesh in the Dhaka Test. The Proteas are eyeing vital points in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings with hopes of the final still in hand. Bangladesh on the other hand come into the series on the back of a defeat to India having lost the Test series 2-0 against Rohit Sharma’s men. They had earlier beaten Pakistan on their own turf in what was a historic win for the side. ALSO READ | 'No ball decision,' PCB roasted for ex-umpire Aleem Dar's appointment in selection committee Brevis earns maiden call-up One of the talented young batters on the cards in South Africa, Brevis is on the Test side for the first time. The batter first came on the scene in the 2022 U-19 World Cup and helped South Africa reach the quarterfinal of the tournament. Brevis has previously represented South Africa in two T20I matches with a Test cap now likely for him. South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Kyle Verreynne.

'Baby AB' Dewald Brevis earns maiden call-up for Bangladesh Tests; Bavuma ruled out with muscle strain

Cricket South Africa (CSA)&nbsp;released a medical update on Temba Bavuma&nbsp;Thursday (Dec 28) after the skipper was forced to sit out of the Centurion Test match due to a hamstring strain. Bavuma, injured during the 20th over on Day 1 of the Indian innings did not come out to bat in his side’s first innings as South Africa were bowled out for 408 but took a&nbsp;lead of 163 runs. Bavuma will be&nbsp;called to the pitch only if he is needed in a crisis situation in the final innings.

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🟢TEMBA BAVUMA UPDATE🟡 
 
Following continuous medical assessments, it was determined that there was too much of a risk of aggravating his left hamstring injury had he gone out to bat at this stage of the game 🏏 🇿🇦 
 
The medical team are managing him to give him the best chance to… <a href="https://t.co/Bx3bZVhUB3">pic.twitter.com/Bx3bZVhUB3</a>
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA/status/1740371716612800618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Update on Bavuma</h2>

“Following continuous medical assessments, it was determined that there was too much of a risk of aggravating his left hamstring injury had he gone out to bat at this stage of the game. The medical team are managing him to give him the best chance to bat should he be required in the 4th innings,” CSA stated in a statement on their social media handle.

The hosts were dealt a huge blow after skipper Bavuma was seen limping off the field in the first session of Day 1. It was reported that Bavuma was suffering from a hamstring issue which saw him unofficially get ruled out of the rest of the match. He was since not seen on the field and underwent scans which have revealed the extent of the injury.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-v-pak-play-delayed-after-third-umpire-got-stuck-in-lift-at-mcg-during-boxing-day-test-674226">AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test</a>

However, the CSA’s statement has not ruled out Bavuma entirely from the match despite him not coming out to bat in South Africa’s second innings. The Proteas were bowled out for 408 with only nine wickets fallen, before they decided to call it a day.

At the time of writing, South Africa might not need Bavuma’s service in the second innings as India were 113/8 in their second innings and still trailed by 50 runs. As things stand, India are losing by an innings and still need 50 runs to avoid the catastrophe of embarrassing defeat.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) released a medical update on Temba Bavuma Thursday (Dec 28) after the skipper was forced to sit out of the Centurion Test match due to a hamstring strain.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) released a medical update on Temba Bavuma Thursday (Dec 28) after the skipper was forced to sit out of the Centurion Test match due to a hamstring strain. Bavuma, injured during the 20th over on Day 1 of the Indian innings did not come out to bat in his side’s first innings as South Africa were bowled out for 408 but took a lead of 163 runs. Bavuma will be called to the pitch only if he is needed in a crisis situation in the final innings. 🟢TEMBA BAVUMA UPDATE🟡 Following continuous medical assessments, it was determined that there was too much of a risk of aggravating his left hamstring injury had he gone out to bat at this stage of the game 🏏 🇿🇦 The medical team are managing him to give him the best chance to… pic.twitter.com/Bx3bZVhUB3 — Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 28, 2023 × Update on Bavuma “Following continuous medical assessments, it was determined that there was too much of a risk of aggravating his left hamstring injury had he gone out to bat at this stage of the game. The medical team are managing him to give him the best chance to bat should he be required in the 4th innings,” CSA stated in a statement on their social media handle. The hosts were dealt a huge blow after skipper Bavuma was seen limping off the field in the first session of Day 1. It was reported that Bavuma was suffering from a hamstring issue which saw him unofficially get ruled out of the rest of the match. He was since not seen on the field and underwent scans which have revealed the extent of the injury. ALSO READ | AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test However, the CSA’s statement has not ruled out Bavuma entirely from the match despite him not coming out to bat in South Africa’s second innings. The Proteas were bowled out for 408 with only nine wickets fallen, before they decided to call it a day. At the time of writing, South Africa might not need Bavuma’s service in the second innings as India were 113/8 in their second innings and still trailed by 50 runs. As things stand, India are losing by an innings and still need 50 runs to avoid the catastrophe of embarrassing defeat.

SA vs IND, 1st Test: Cricket South Africa says 'too much of a risk' on Temba Bavuma's injury

South Africa legendary batter Herschelle Gibbs has taken a massive dig at skipper Temba Bavuma after he went out injured on the first day of the Centurion Test match on Tuesday (Dec 26). Bavuma was injured in the 20th over of the Indian first innings and was taken to the scans. It was later revealed that he had a right hamstring strain and was likely to miss the rest of the match. Gibbs, in his remark on Bavuma, termed him unfit and overweight.

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Ironic that the coach allows some players who are clearly unfit and overweight to play when he started off as proteas trainer in 2009🙄
— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) <a href="https://twitter.com/hershybru/status/1739635067813613772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Gibbs takes dig at Bavuma</h2>

“Ironic that the coach allows some players who are clearly unfit and overweight to play when he started off as proteas trainer in 2009,” Gibbs posted on X in a reply to a post.&nbsp;

Before the fifth ball of the 20th over, Bavuma was attended by physios and was later seen limping off the field. It is initially thought that Bavuma has pulled his hamstring which could result in him missing the rest of the match. Hamstring issues generally have lengthy time out for players as it takes time to recover. If this is the case, Bavuma could be ruled out of the entire series while his participation in the remainder of the first Test remains in doubt.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-1st-test-rain-plays-spoilsport-on-day-1-after-kagiso-rabada-dismantles-indian-top-order-with-5-for-673788">SA vs IND, 1st Test: Rain plays spoilsport on Day 1 after Kagiso Rabada dismantles Indian top order with 5-for</a>

<h2>What happened on Boxing Day?</h2>

India's batting suffered a bitter blow on Day 1 of the Centurion Test as Kagiso Rabada stole the spotlight with his five-for against Rohit Sharma’s men. The South African speedster was the highlight reel of the day as India were&nbsp;208/8 before rain played spoilsport. As a result, Stumps were called early on Boxing Day with KL Rahul batting on 70 along with Mohammed Siraj (0).

For the hosts, Rabada has figures of 44/5 in his 17 overs while Nandre Burger (50/2) and Marco Jansen (52/1) were also amongst the wicket-takers. The hosts though could have a tough second day with the bat as having lost skipper Temba Bavuma through injury during the first session. He was seen limping off with a hamstring issue during the 20th over of India’s first innings.

South Africa legendary batter Herschelle Gibbs has taken a massive dig at skipper Temba Bavuma after he went out injured on the first day of the Centurion Test match on Tuesday (Dec 26).

South Africa legendary batter Herschelle Gibbs has taken a massive dig at skipper Temba Bavuma after he went out injured on the first day of the Centurion Test match on Tuesday (Dec 26). Bavuma was injured in the 20th over of the Indian first innings and was taken to the scans. It was later revealed that he had a right hamstring strain and was likely to miss the rest of the match. Gibbs, in his remark on Bavuma, termed him unfit and overweight. Ironic that the coach allows some players who are clearly unfit and overweight to play when he started off as proteas trainer in 2009🙄 — Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) December 26, 2023 × Gibbs takes dig at Bavuma “Ironic that the coach allows some players who are clearly unfit and overweight to play when he started off as proteas trainer in 2009,” Gibbs posted on X in a reply to a post. Before the fifth ball of the 20th over, Bavuma was attended by physios and was later seen limping off the field. It is initially thought that Bavuma has pulled his hamstring which could result in him missing the rest of the match. Hamstring issues generally have lengthy time out for players as it takes time to recover. If this is the case, Bavuma could be ruled out of the entire series while his participation in the remainder of the first Test remains in doubt. ALSO READ | SA vs IND, 1st Test: Rain plays spoilsport on Day 1 after Kagiso Rabada dismantles Indian top order with 5-for What happened on Boxing Day? India's batting suffered a bitter blow on Day 1 of the Centurion Test as Kagiso Rabada stole the spotlight with his five-for against Rohit Sharma’s men. The South African speedster was the highlight reel of the day as India were 208/8 before rain played spoilsport. As a result, Stumps were called early on Boxing Day with KL Rahul batting on 70 along with Mohammed Siraj (0). For the hosts, Rabada has figures of 44/5 in his 17 overs while Nandre Burger (50/2) and Marco Jansen (52/1) were also amongst the wicket-takers. The hosts though could have a tough second day with the bat as having lost skipper Temba Bavuma through injury during the first session. He was seen limping off with a hamstring issue during the 20th over of India’s first innings.

SA vs IND 1st Test: Herschelle Gibbs takes massive dig at Temba Bavuma, terms him ‘unfit and overweight’

Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between India and South Africa saw the hosts dealt a huge blow after skipper Temba Bavuma was seen limping off the field. It is reported that Bavuma is suffering from a hamstring issue which could be bad news considering it is just Day 1 of the match. Despite the Bavuma injury issue, the Proteas have been rock-solid as they had India tottering at 176/7 at Tea with Kagiso Rabada scalping five wickets.

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Here is the latest on Temba Bavuma's injury 👇 
 
India are 170/7 after 48 overs 🇮🇳 
 
📺 Stream <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> live: <a href="https://t.co/ACEUH7ehZ3">https://t.co/ACEUH7ehZ3</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WozaNawe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WozaNawe</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BePartOfIt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BePartOfIt</a> <a href="https://t.co/OozBnggCVM">pic.twitter.com/OozBnggCVM</a>
— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuperSportTV/status/1739632742017475002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Bavuma hamstring issue</h2>

Before the fifth ball of the 20th over, Bavuma was attended by physios and was later seen limping off the field. It is initially thought that Bavuma has pulled his hamstring which could result in him missing the rest of the match. Hamstring issues generally have lengthy time out for players as it takes time to recover. If this is the case, Bavuma could be ruled out of the entire series while his participation in the remainder of the first Test remains in doubt.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-opener-david-warner-names-this-player-to-replace-him-as-opener-in-tests-post-retirement-673728">Australia opener David Warner names THIS player to replace him as opener in Tests post retirement</a>

<h2>Rabada on fire</h2>

Meanwhile, the hosts had an excellent first two sessions of Day 1 as they established complete dominance after Rabada’s masterclass show with the ball. India were 24/3 in the first session after skipper Rohit Sharma (5), Yashasvi Jaiswal (17) and Shubman Gill (2) fell in quick succession. Nandre Burger was the architect-in-chief of India’s downfall as he got the better of Gill and Jaiswal.

The visitors then built a partnership of 68 runs as Shreyas Iyer (31) and Virat Kohli (38) helped India get back in the contest. However, in the second session, Rabada again showed his class to get the better of Iyer putting India on the back foot on 92/4.

Ravichandran Ashwin (8) and Shardul Thakur (24) then followed soon as India lost their way against the exceptional South African star Rabada. At the time of writing at Tea on Day 1 India were 176/7 with KL Rahul (39) and Jasprit Bumrah (0) in the middle.

Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between India and South Africa saw the hosts dealt a huge blow after skipper Temba Bavuma was seen limping off the field. It is reported that Bavuma is suffering from a hamstring issue which could be bad news considering it is just Day 1 of the match.

Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between India and South Africa saw the hosts dealt a huge blow after skipper Temba Bavuma was seen limping off the field. It is reported that Bavuma is suffering from a hamstring issue which could be bad news considering it is just Day 1 of the match. Despite the Bavuma injury issue, the Proteas have been rock-solid as they had India tottering at 176/7 at Tea with Kagiso Rabada scalping five wickets. Here is the latest on Temba Bavuma's injury 👇 India are 170/7 after 48 overs 🇮🇳 📺 Stream #SAvIND live: https://t.co/ACEUH7ehZ3#WozaNawe | #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/OozBnggCVM — SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) December 26, 2023 × Bavuma hamstring issue Before the fifth ball of the 20th over, Bavuma was attended by physios and was later seen limping off the field. It is initially thought that Bavuma has pulled his hamstring which could result in him missing the rest of the match. Hamstring issues generally have lengthy time out for players as it takes time to recover. If this is the case, Bavuma could be ruled out of the entire series while his participation in the remainder of the first Test remains in doubt. ALSO READ | Australia opener David Warner names THIS player to replace him as opener in Tests post retirement Rabada on fire Meanwhile, the hosts had an excellent first two sessions of Day 1 as they established complete dominance after Rabada’s masterclass show with the ball. India were 24/3 in the first session after skipper Rohit Sharma (5), Yashasvi Jaiswal (17) and Shubman Gill (2) fell in quick succession. Nandre Burger was the architect-in-chief of India’s downfall as he got the better of Gill and Jaiswal. The visitors then built a partnership of 68 runs as Shreyas Iyer (31) and Virat Kohli (38) helped India get back in the contest. However, in the second session, Rabada again showed his class to get the better of Iyer putting India on the back foot on 92/4. Ravichandran Ashwin (8) and Shardul Thakur (24) then followed soon as India lost their way against the exceptional South African star Rabada. At the time of writing at Tea on Day 1 India were 176/7 with KL Rahul (39) and Jasprit Bumrah (0) in the middle.

WATCH: South Africa dealt huge blow on Day 1 vs India as Temba Bavuma limps off with hamstring issue

A few top players, including seamers Mohammed Shami and Kagiso Rabada, alongside South Africa captain Temba Bavuma, are doubtful for the two-match Test series, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion. While Shami continues to recover from the ankle injury, Temba and Rabada are out of contention as the Tests loom.

India’s best bowler during the home World Cup, picking 24 wickets from just seven matches, Shami might not travel with the Test-bound squad, including regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravi Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah, scheduled to leave for the Rainbow Nation on Friday (Dec 15).

The board has not named his replacement yet. With many players in South Africa already for the white-ball leg, Tests and the A-tour, anyone could be drafted in if Shami fails to recover on time for the two-match Test series. As things stand, more than 75 Indian players are part of the South Africa tour.

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Meanwhile, Shami’s selection for the Proteas Tests came with a disclaimer that his availability will be subject to fitness. At a time when the BCCI named the squads for the South Africa series, a statement read, ‘Mr. Mohd. Shami is currently undergoing medical treatment, and his availability is subject to fitness.’

The India seamer suffered an ankle injury during the World Cup but carried till the end despite pain, experiencing discomfort while landing on his right foot during a delivery.

<h2>South Africa duo doubtful for India Tests</h2>

Not only Shami but star players from the home side are in danger of missing out on the Test series – Kagiso Rabada and Temba Bavuma.

Suffering from a bruised heel that restricted him from bowling over six overs in the World Cup semi-final against Australia (at Eden Gardens), Rabada is likely to undergo further assessment before a call on his selection is made, an official from Cricket South Africa said.

With his fellow seamers Lungi Ngidi (sprained ankle) and Anrich Nortje (lumbar stress fracture) out already, the absence of Rabada will hurt South Africa heading into the marquee series against the top Indian Team, given the World Test Championship points on stake.

Likewise, Temba Bavuma has not picked up the cricket bat since the World Cup exit, with the star batter missing the game for the Lions due to ‘personal reasons’, their press release said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India will play a three-day warm-up game before the action moves to the Test series.&nbsp;

A few top players, including seamers Mohammed Shami and Kagiso Rabada, alongside South Africa captain Temba Bavuma, are doubtful for the two-match Test series, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.

A few top players, including seamers Mohammed Shami and Kagiso Rabada, alongside South Africa captain Temba Bavuma, are doubtful for the two-match Test series, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion. While Shami continues to recover from the ankle injury, Temba and Rabada are out of contention as the Tests loom. India’s best bowler during the home World Cup, picking 24 wickets from just seven matches, Shami might not travel with the Test-bound squad, including regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravi Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah, scheduled to leave for the Rainbow Nation on Friday (Dec 15). The board has not named his replacement yet. With many players in South Africa already for the white-ball leg, Tests and the A-tour, anyone could be drafted in if Shami fails to recover on time for the two-match Test series. As things stand, more than 75 Indian players are part of the South Africa tour. ALSO READ: BCCI pays tribute to MS Dhoni for his contribution to Indian cricket, retires iconic 'Number 7' jersey Meanwhile, Shami’s selection for the Proteas Tests came with a disclaimer that his availability will be subject to fitness. At a time when the BCCI named the squads for the South Africa series, a statement read, ‘Mr. Mohd. Shami is currently undergoing medical treatment, and his availability is subject to fitness.’ The India seamer suffered an ankle injury during the World Cup but carried till the end despite pain, experiencing discomfort while landing on his right foot during a delivery. South Africa duo doubtful for India Tests Not only Shami but star players from the home side are in danger of missing out on the Test series – Kagiso Rabada and Temba Bavuma. Suffering from a bruised heel that restricted him from bowling over six overs in the World Cup semi-final against Australia (at Eden Gardens), Rabada is likely to undergo further assessment before a call on his selection is made, an official from Cricket South Africa said. With his fellow seamers Lungi Ngidi (sprained ankle) and Anrich Nortje (lumbar stress fracture) out already, the absence of Rabada will hurt South Africa heading into the marquee series against the top Indian Team, given the World Test Championship points on stake. Likewise, Temba Bavuma has not picked up the cricket bat since the World Cup exit, with the star batter missing the game for the Lions due to ‘personal reasons’, their press release said. Meanwhile, India will play a three-day warm-up game before the action moves to the Test series.

Mohammed Shami, Kagiso Rabada among top stars doubtful for India-South Africa Tests

World Cup captain Temba Bavuma will miss two white-ball series against India, Cricket South Africa announced on Monday in naming squads for the multi-format tour. Bavuma as well as fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will play no part in the limited overs series in order to prepare for two World Test Championship matches, starting in Centurion on December 26.

Fast bowlers Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen will only play in the first two T20 internationals before returning to their franchises to play in domestic four-day cricket ahead of the Test series. One-day coach Rob Walter said the decision was made in consultation with Test coach Shukri Conrad.

"We have a busy summer ahead starting with the T20Is and then ODIs against India and we have therefore taken the decision to omit several of our senior players," said Walter.&nbsp; "This decision was taken together with coach Shukri as we place emphasis on the red-ball leg of the tour, meaning they will instead be preparing for the Test series by playing domestic cricket."

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Conrad said: "It is the start of a new ICC World Test Championship cycle and that itself is a huge incentive for everyone. We want to try and ensure we make a strong start to this sequence here at home against one of the best teams in the world." The Test squad includes three uncapped players in Durham and Western Province batsman David Bedingham, left-arm fast bowler Nandre Burger and batsman Tristan Stubbs.

Burger is set to make his international debut after being named in all three squads. Another newcomer is all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana, who was selected for the one-day series. The first T20 international will be played in Durban on Sunday. There will be three T20 internationals and three&nbsp;one-day internationals. India will also be without key players for the white-ball matches, with regular captain Rohit Sharma and former captain Virat Kohli rested ahead of the Test matches.

South African squads:

T20 internationals:&nbsp;Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Lizaad Williams

One-day internationals: Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Mihlali Mpongwana, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne (wkt), Lizaad Williams

Tests: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Dean Elgar, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wkt)&nbsp;

Fixtures:

December 10, first T20 international, Durban

December 12, second T20 international, Gqeberha

December 14, third T20 int6ernational, Johannesburg

December 17, first one-day international, Johannesburg

December 19, second one-day international, Gqeberha

December 21, third one-day international, Paarl

December 26-30, first Test match, Centurion

January 3-7, second Test match, Cape Town

World Cup captain Temba Bavuma will miss two white-ball series against India, Cricket South Africa announced on Monday in naming squads for the multi-format tour.

World Cup captain Temba Bavuma will miss two white-ball series against India, Cricket South Africa announced on Monday in naming squads for the multi-format tour. Bavuma as well as fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will play no part in the limited overs series in order to prepare for two World Test Championship matches, starting in Centurion on December 26. Fast bowlers Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen will only play in the first two T20 internationals before returning to their franchises to play in domestic four-day cricket ahead of the Test series. One-day coach Rob Walter said the decision was made in consultation with Test coach Shukri Conrad. "We have a busy summer ahead starting with the T20Is and then ODIs against India and we have therefore taken the decision to omit several of our senior players," said Walter. "This decision was taken together with coach Shukri as we place emphasis on the red-ball leg of the tour, meaning they will instead be preparing for the Test series by playing domestic cricket." Also Read: Kylian Mbappe, Vitinha lead Paris Saint German over Le Havre after keeper shown red flag Conrad said: "It is the start of a new ICC World Test Championship cycle and that itself is a huge incentive for everyone. We want to try and ensure we make a strong start to this sequence here at home against one of the best teams in the world." The Test squad includes three uncapped players in Durham and Western Province batsman David Bedingham, left-arm fast bowler Nandre Burger and batsman Tristan Stubbs. Burger is set to make his international debut after being named in all three squads. Another newcomer is all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana, who was selected for the one-day series. The first T20 international will be played in Durban on Sunday. There will be three T20 internationals and three one-day internationals. India will also be without key players for the white-ball matches, with regular captain Rohit Sharma and former captain Virat Kohli rested ahead of the Test matches. South African squads: T20 internationals: Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Lizaad Williams One-day internationals: Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Mihlali Mpongwana, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne (wkt), Lizaad Williams Tests: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Dean Elgar, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wkt) Fixtures: December 10, first T20 international, Durban December 12, second T20 international, Gqeberha December 14, third T20 int6ernational, Johannesburg December 17, first one-day international, Johannesburg December 19, second one-day international, Gqeberha December 21, third one-day international, Paarl December 26-30, first Test match, Centurion January 3-7, second Test match, Cape Town

Proteas captain Temba Bavuma to miss white-ball series against India, says Cricket South Africa

South African Captain Temba Bavuma's disappointing World Cup ended with a duck and with many questioning his spot in the ODI team. Bavuma played the semi-final against Australia in Kolkata despite not being 100% fit and his early dismissal for a duck handed the Australian bowlers the advantage.

ICC World Cup: Does Temba Bavuma deserve a spot in South Africa's white-ball set-up?

South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma conceded that Australia were ruthless early on with the ball in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023. South Africa once again failed to reach the final of the quadrennial tournament despite being in good form this time.

"The conditions, combined with the quality of the attack. I thought [Josh] Hazlewood as well as [Mitchell] Starc upfront were ruthless. They exploited every bit of advantage that was presented to them with the conditions and they really put us under pressure," Bavuma said after the three-wicket loss on November 16.

South Africa recorded the second lowest powerplay score - 18/2 - in the World Cup 2023 despite winning the toss and electing to bat first in Kolkata. They were soon four wickets down and the skipper acknowledged that it was always going to be a struggle after that.

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"When you're 4 for 24, you're always going to struggle to get a competitive total," said the Proteas skipper.

He, however, gave due credit to Australia, who were also put under pressure by South African bowlers in a chase of 213 irrespective of the flying start given by David Warner and Travis Head.

"They were outstanding for a large part of the game and thoroughly deserved victory. Looking at the result, I think the way we started with the bat and the ball was probably the turning point. We lost it quite badly there and we always had to play catch-up to get ourselves back into the game," Bavuma said.

After losing the first four wickets quickly, David Miller scored a hundred as South Africa crossed the 200-run mark. While bowling, SA spinners Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj along with young speedster Gerald Coetzee kept the Aussies on their toes but the five-time winners eventually prevailed.

Australia will now face India in a replay of the 2003 ODI World Cup final on November 19 in Ahmedabad.

South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma conceded that Australia were ruthless early on with the ball in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023. South Africa once again failed to reach the final of the quadrennial tournament despite being in good form this time.

South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma conceded that Australia were ruthless early on with the ball in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023. South Africa once again failed to reach the final of the quadrennial tournament despite being in good form this time. "The conditions, combined with the quality of the attack. I thought [Josh] Hazlewood as well as [Mitchell] Starc upfront were ruthless. They exploited every bit of advantage that was presented to them with the conditions and they really put us under pressure," Bavuma said after the three-wicket loss on November 16. South Africa recorded the second lowest powerplay score - 18/2 - in the World Cup 2023 despite winning the toss and electing to bat first in Kolkata. They were soon four wickets down and the skipper acknowledged that it was always going to be a struggle after that. Also Watch: VIRAL VIDEO | India skipper Rohit MIMICS Shreyas Iyer's century celebration in semi-final "When you're 4 for 24, you're always going to struggle to get a competitive total," said the Proteas skipper. He, however, gave due credit to Australia, who were also put under pressure by South African bowlers in a chase of 213 irrespective of the flying start given by David Warner and Travis Head. "They were outstanding for a large part of the game and thoroughly deserved victory. Looking at the result, I think the way we started with the bat and the ball was probably the turning point. We lost it quite badly there and we always had to play catch-up to get ourselves back into the game," Bavuma said. After losing the first four wickets quickly, David Miller scored a hundred as South Africa crossed the 200-run mark. While bowling, SA spinners Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj along with young speedster Gerald Coetzee kept the Aussies on their toes but the five-time winners eventually prevailed. Australia will now face India in a replay of the 2003 ODI World Cup final on November 19 in Ahmedabad.

ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma shares TURNING POINT of loss vs 'ruthless' Australia

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