South Africa captain Temba Bavuma sends BIG warning to India ahead of Test series

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has declared that achieving a Test series victory in India would be their second biggest achievement after this year’s WTC title. The last time South Africa clinched a Test series in India was 2010 and they are determined to break that losing streak by facing India in the two-match Test series starting on Friday.

Under Bavuma’s leadership, the Proteas are yet to suffer defeat in Test matches; won nine out of ten matches, with one match ending in a draw due to rain. Ahead of this series, Bavuma acknowledged the difficulties they have had in winning a Test series in India over the last few years, stating that achieving this target is now a dream for the team.

“Obviously, winning the World Test Championship doesn’t come above that. But second is winning in India. That’s something we haven’t been able to achieve for a long time, so it’s definitely high on our target list,” Bavuma told reporters at the pre-match press conference.

The Proteas have suffered seven consecutive defeats in Test matches in India since their last three series. However, Bavuma remains optimistic that the current squad, unbeaten since coach Shukri Conrad took over in 2023, is capable of challenging India effectively.

“We understand the magnitude of the challenge. Some of us have had this injury before so we know what it is about. When we look at both teams there is a lot of talent. India, although a bit inexperienced, have great players and are similar to our side. The guys are keen to test themselves against the best,” he said.

Bavuma also recounted a humorous conversation he had with former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who led his team to a 3-0 victory against India in the home Test series last year. He stated that Williamson has improved his skills in winning the toss after highlighting his importance in India.

“I met Kane at an awards night in Mumbai a few months ago. I asked him for some tips on how to win in India. He wasn’t very forthcoming – he just said, ‘Make sure you win the toss’. That’s what I follow,” he said.

The only time South Africa emerged victorious in a Test series in India was in 2000, when the Hansie Cronje-led team claimed a 2-0 victory over the home team. Since then they have drawn two series and lost three Test series. Therefore, the team led by Temba Bavuma is looking forward to ending the losing streak in the upcoming series.

The Test at Eden Gardens will also mark an emotional comeback for Bavuma, two years after South Africa were dismissed for just 83 runs in an ODI World Cup match here; It was a moment that raised concerns about his performance and leadership.

“From a batting perspective, it wasn’t the best of the World Cups for me. So I can understand why there was criticism,” he said.

“From a captaincy perspective, it’s always felt like a process of discovery. You’re always learning more about yourself. I think I’m a lot more comfortable in my own skin now. There’s no need to prove to myself or to people back home that I deserve the title. The results are there.” He knows that scrutiny will always follow the business. “The magnifying glass will always be on you,” he added.

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