South Africa is preparing for a multi-format tour of India, which will include two Test matches. The team’s captain, Temba Bavuma, is looking for ways to give his side an edge against the Indian team on home soil.
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| Image Source: Hindustan Times |
Bavuma is taking inspiration from New Zealand’s recent success in India. In October-November 2024, the Black Caps made history by winning all three Tests against India — a feat that hadn’t been achieved in decades. They defeated India in Bengaluru, Pune, and finally Mumbai to complete a clean sweep. Bavuma hopes South Africa can achieve a similar result in their two-Test series.
The South African captain plans to speak with New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson to understand the strategies that worked for his team. “Touring India is never easy. Seeing how New Zealand approached it was inspiring,” Bavuma said. “I’ll definitely ask Kane for tips on how they went about it.”
Before facing India, South Africa will play a Test series against Pakistan. Bavuma wants his team to use that series to build momentum. “The boys will go to Pakistan first and handle that challenge. Then straight after, it’s India,” he explained. He added that playing in India is tough, but opportunities exist for teams that play their best cricket.
Bavuma also praised India’s current lineup, highlighting Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli. He said the new generation is taking charge, but the contributions of senior players like Kohli and Rohit have made India a team to be feared. “They’ve done their job, put India on top, and made it a strong side. The new players are continuing that legacy,” he said.
He expressed excitement about the battles between young players on both sides. “The younger guys, the ones you’ve mentored or inspired, are taking over. India will continue to dominate, and our job is to make sure they don’t dominate too easily,” Bavuma added.
He concluded by acknowledging India as one of the top cricket teams in the world, emphasizing that South Africa will aim to challenge them fully during the tour.