After 27 years without lifting a global ICC trophy, South Africa has finally broken the drought. The Proteas have won the World Test Championship and at the centre of it all stood Temba Bavuma, the captain who carried a nation’s hope, pain, and pride on his shoulders.
What unfolded at Lord’s was more than just a win; it was a deeply personal and national moment, led by a player who faced all sorts of adversity and fought through it all, playing an integral part in South Africa becoming World Test Champions.
“Special for myself, for the country,” Bavuma said after the game. “That word ‘special’… I keep using it. I think for the country, it’s a chance for us to rejoice in something, to kind of forget about our issues and really come together.”
Bavuma spoke with emotion, drawing inspiration not only from his journey but also from the Springbok rugby team – fellow champions who have become symbols of national unity.
“I’m not a big rugby fan, but I watch the rugby guys. The biggest thing I admire about them is how they’ve embraced what being South African actually means. They’ve captured the hearts of everyone.”
This victory didn’t come easy for the Proteas. There were doubters along the way – critics of our approach, our selections, and our captain. But Bavuma believes the manner in which South Africa played put all of that to rest.
“There were a lot of doubters as to the route that we took to get to this point. I do think the way that we played would have wiped all of that out.”
He credits the unity within the group for holding them together through the struggles. For Bavuma, it was never just about leading – it was about connection.
“This is what connects us – Myself, Aiden, KG, Kesh. This is what we’ve always wanted to do. We recognise that the sun shines on us, and we have the responsibility of doing something that has never been done before,” he added.
“It hasn’t been easy. It’s not easy being captain of South Africa… All the sacrifices, all the disappointment… in that moment, it really feels worth it.
“Giving up is always an option. It’s always there. But something kind of wills you on.”
When the final runs were scored, Bavuma sat with his head in his hands. It was a combination of relief, joy, and reflection. And in that moment there was a sense of not just to be successful, but to be recognised beyond labels.
“To be recognised more than just a Black African cricketer… but to be seen as someone who’s done something the country has wanted – that’s something I’ll walk around with my chest out.”
He wasn’t meant to play. Carrying a hamstring strain, medical advice was for him to sit out. But Bavuma ignored that. Not for pride – but for something greater.
“I didn’t want to think of another option. I didn’t want to consider not being there with Aiden during that moment… I was willing to deal with whatever consequence came with it.”
It was instinct. It was heart. It was history. From a young boy living in Langa to the Home of Cricket winning a first World Championship for his country.
“Think about those days in Langa growing up… I never pictured myself playing here at Lord’s. I could only fantasise about it.
“Being captain? That was never a dream of mine. Now to be in this position, having won the mace for the country… you can’t write those stories. That’s for the Man above.
“I hope I can inspire – not just people in our country, but across the so-called smaller nations too. We know they were with us. We feel that support.”
Temba Bavuma may have done more than win a trophy. He may have reminded South Africa – and the world – what perseverance, humility, and courage really looks like.
