Proteas captain Temba Bavuma has declared his team ready to chase their long-held ambition of winning a Test series in India. Fresh off a 1-1 draw in Pakistan, the South African squad is set to face India in a two-Test series kicking off at Kolkata's Eden Gardens on Friday.
Bavuma acknowledged that winning the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at Lord's was a significant achievement, but conquering India remains a paramount goal. "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's – I wouldn't even say it's eluded us – but we haven't been able to do (it) for the longest of time. So, that's definitely up there in terms of ambition."
Having recovered from an injury that sidelined him during the Pakistan tour, Bavuma emphasised the challenge ahead. "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." South Africa's recent record in India is less than stellar, with 3-0 series losses in their last two encounters. Their last series victory dates back to 2000 under Hansie Cronje.
However, with Bavuma at the helm, the Proteas boast a strong leader, having won nine and drawn one of his ten Tests as captain. He prepared for the series by playing for South Africa A against India A in a four-day match, securing a five-wicket victory. "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," Bavuma 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."
Key Challenges Ahead
- Adapting to subcontinent conditions.
- Overcoming past defeats in India.
- Maintaining fitness throughout the series.
What to expect
Cricket fans can anticipate a closely contested series as South Africa aims to rewrite history and achieve a coveted Test series victory in India. The series promises high-stakes cricket and a battle of skill and resilience.