Follow UsTemba Bavuma raising the World Test Championship (WTC) mace is as symbolic as King Mufasa raising Simba towards the Pride Lands. It was symbolic on multiple levels, as Bavuma, who was viewed as a ‘quota player’, led South Africa to their second-ever ICC title, besting a dominant Australian side.
Throughout his time as the captain, Bavuma was always undermined, with several people calling for his head despite scoring runs consistently. After a dominant five-wicket win against Australia on June 14 (Saturday), the 35-year-old admitted that being a South African captain isn’t ‘easy’.
“It was quite tense, even when we got it to 10 runs (needed) we knew anything can happen,” Bavuma said, reported the Indian Express.
“When he (Verreynne) scored the runs, I hid my head in my hands, just trying to embrace and acknowledge what we’ve just done.
“I thought of the experiences I’ve had in the last couple of years. It hasn’t been easy, it’s not easy being captain of South Africa.
“All the sacrifice, disappointment, at that moment it really feels worth it.”
Bavuma also made a strong statement, saying that he wants to be recognised more than just a ‘black cricketer’.
“(I want) to be recognised as more than just a black African cricketer, and to be seen as someone who has done something the country has wanted.
“I will walk around with my chest out and hope it continues to inspire our country.”