Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Nov 13: South African captain Temba Bavuma says that a Test series victory in India would rank just below his team’s World Test Championship (WTC) title in importance, calling it one of the ultimate challenges in world cricket.
“Obviously, winning the WTC… not much can top that. But second to that would be winning in India,” Bavuma said on the eve of the first Test at Eden Gardens. “It’s something we’ve wanted for a long time and haven’t managed yet — definitely a big ambition for us.”
South Africa haven’t won a Test in India since 2010, losing seven consecutive matches since then. But Bavuma believes the current squad — unbeaten in a full-strength Test series since coach Shukri Conrad took charge — has the discipline, maturity, and hunger to end that streak.
“We know how tough it is. Some of us have felt the pain before. But we’re ready — it’s a challenge we look forward to,” he said.
Bavuma, returning from injury, regained form with a half-century in a warm-up match against India A, and even managed to face spinner Kuldeep Yadav. “He’s not a massive turner but he’s very smart — definitely a wicket-taker,” Bavuma noted.
The skipper also shared a light-hearted exchange with Kane Williamson, recalling that the New Zealand star jokingly advised him to “just win the toss” if he wanted to beat India at home.
Reflecting on his leadership journey since South Africa’s 2023 World Cup disappointment — which included a heavy loss at Eden Gardens — Bavuma said he has grown more comfortable with scrutiny. “You’re always under the magnifying glass, but I’ve learned to enjoy the process. I don’t feel I have to prove anything anymore — the results speak for themselves.”
With South Africa missing their traditional Boxing Day and New Year’s Tests, Bavuma said the India series has become their marquee event. “This is our festive season,” he smiled. “We’d love to play more Tests against India, England, and Australia — maybe not just two, maybe three.”
For Bavuma, conquering India’s spinning tracks would be more than a milestone — it would be a statement of South Africa’s rise as a resilient, world-beating side.