Temba Bavuma Says Winning in India Would Be South Africa’s Biggest Triumph After WTC Title

Bavuma Targets Historic Test Series Win in India: ‘It Would Be Our Second Biggest Triumph After WTC’

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma believes winning a Test series in India would be the second greatest achievement for his team after lifting the World Test Championship (WTC) trophy earlier this year. The Proteas, who last won a Test in India in 2010, will begin their two-match series at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Friday, November 14.

Under Bavuma’s captaincy, South Africa have been in formidable form — unbeaten in ten Tests, with nine wins and one rain-hit draw. The skipper admitted that winning in India remains one of their biggest ambitions.

“Obviously, winning the World Test Championship — not much can top that,” Bavuma said ahead of the series opener. “But second to that would be winning in India. It’s something we haven’t managed for a long time, so it’s definitely high on our list of ambitions.”

Chasing a Rare Feat
South Africa have lost seven consecutive Tests in India across their last three tours. However, Bavuma is confident that the current squad has the experience and belief to challenge the hosts.

“We understand how tough it is to play here. Some of us have felt the pain before, so we know what to expect. Both sides have exciting talent — India’s team is fantastic but slightly inexperienced, and so are we. The boys are hungry to test themselves against the best,” he said.

Williamson’s Toss Tip
Bavuma also shared a light-hearted moment from a recent chat with New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, whose side beat India 3-0 last year.

“I met Kane at an awards night in Mumbai a couple of months ago,” Bavuma recalled. “I asked him for tips on how to win in India. He wasn’t too forthcoming — he just said, ‘Make sure you win the toss.’ So, I’ve been practising that,” he laughed.

End of a Long Wait?
South Africa’s only Test series win in India came in 2000 under Hansie Cronje, followed by two drawn and three lost series. Now, with momentum and confidence on their side, Bavuma’s men will be aiming to rewrite history and finally end their 25-year wait for a series win on Indian soil.