South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma has stated that securing a Test series victory in India would rank as the second most significant achievement, following their triumph in the World Test Championship earlier this year. The Proteas, who last celebrated a Test win in India back in 2010, are eager to break this lengthy spell when the two-match series kicks off at Eden Gardens on Friday, November 14.
Under Bavuma’s guidance, South Africa has been on a winning streak, remaining undefeated in Test matches during his captaincy, having achieved victory in nine out of ten games, with one match ending in a rain-affected draw. As the series approaches, Bavuma has recognized the team’s struggle to secure wins in India over recent years, highlighting this as a key objective for the squad.
“Winning the World Test Championship is hard to top. But winning in India would be second best. It’s something we haven’t accomplished in a long time, so it’s definitely one of our top priorities,” Bavuma remarked prior to the series opener.
South Africa has faced defeat in seven consecutive Tests in India during three separate tours. However, Bavuma is confident that the current team, which has not lost a full-strength Test series since Shukri Conrad assumed the coaching role in 2023, possesses the confidence and experience necessary to mount a formidable challenge.
“We recognize the significance of this challenge. Some of us have felt the disappointment before, so we understand what it entails. Both teams have immense talent; India boasts excellent players, although they may lack some experience, and our squad reflects a similar situation. The players are keen to measure themselves against the best,” he added.
Bavuma shares Williamson’s advice
Bavuma also recounted a light-hearted conversation with former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who led his team to a surprising 3-0 victory against India on their home turf last year. He amusingly disclosed that he has been working on his toss-winning skills after Williamson emphasized its significance in India.
<p“I ran into Kane at an awards event in Mumbai a few months ago. I sought his advice on winning in India. He wasn’t very forthcoming — he simply said, ‘Make sure you win the toss.’ So, I’ve been practicing that,” Bavuma chuckled as he remembered.
South Africa’s sole series victory in India occurred in 2000 when they triumphed 2-0 under Hansie Cronje’s captaincy. Since then, they have drawn two series and lost three. Thus, the Temba Bavuma-led team is determined to end their long-standing winless streak in India during the forthcoming series.