South Africa’s victorious captain, Temba Bavuma, is already looking ahead to a challenging Test series against India, even as his team prepares for a tour of Pakistan as newly crowned World Champions. Bavuma, who aims to be fit for the crucial India encounter next month, views India as a formidable opponent, especially when playing on home turf.
Speaking at the Ceat Cricket Awards where he was recognized for his exceptional leadership, Bavuma emphasized the significance of the upcoming India series. He acknowledged the tough nature of playing in India, noting that a ‘new era’ is emerging in Indian cricket. While praising the contributions of former captains like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for establishing India as a fearsome cricketing nation, Bavuma expressed confidence that India would continue its dominance. However, he made it clear that South Africa’s mission is to challenge that dominance and prevent them from asserting it as freely. He concluded by reiterating his belief that India will remain a top-tier global team.
Even with India’s recent home Test series whitewash against New Zealand, Bavuma stated he anticipates challenging, spinner-friendly pitches for the two-Test series. He highlighted that teams universally leverage their home conditions, a strategy amplified by the World Test Championship format. Bavuma also pointed out the distinct approach of Indian spinners on their home soil compared to overseas, underscoring the demanding adjustment foreign spinners face in adapting to quicker, flatter bowling styles specific to Indian wickets.