Proteas captain Temba Bavuma has declared that winning a Test series in India is a top ambition for the South African team, second only to their World Test Championship victory. Speaking ahead of the two-Test series starting Friday at Kolkata's Eden Gardens, Bavuma acknowledged the significant challenge India poses.
A Long-Awaited Goal
"Obviously, winning the World Test Championship, I think (there's) not much to trump that," Bavuma stated. "But second to that, I think will be winning in India. It's something that... we haven't been able to do (it) for the longest of time. So, that's definitely up there in terms of ambition."
South Africa faces a tough task, having lost their previous two series in India 3-0. Their last series win dates back to 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Bavuma, returning from injury, emphasized the importance of adapting to the subcontinent's conditions. He gained valuable match practice by playing for South Africa A against India A, a match the tourists won.
Preparing for the Challenge
"Coming to India, it's never easy. We understand the magnitude of the challenge. (For) some of us in the group, there have been moments of hurt," Bavuma conceded.
Bavuma himself boasts an impressive record as captain, with nine wins and one draw in ten Tests. He sees his recent appearance for South Africa A as crucial preparation. "I think, for me, the biggest thing was having come off a long lay-off of test cricket, getting back on the field, improving my fitness and spending some time at the crease," he said. "And trying to make whatever adjustments that I need to make with (the) conditions here in the subcontinent. So, yeah, I thought it was a good exercise."
- South Africa aims to win a Test series in India.
- The first Test begins Friday in Kolkata.
- Bavuma highlights the challenge posed by India.
Will Bavuma lead the Proteas to a historic victory in India? The next two weeks will be a crucial test of their ambition and resilience.