Emotional Temba Bavuma reflects on “special” moment for the country

Bavuma, the first captain to finally win a major ICC final, says this is part of healing from past atrocities that come with being a South African. 

The Proteas beat their more fancied opponents Australia by five wickets at the home of cricket Lord’s to bring the mace home. 

Bavuma says they ripped a page from four-time world rugby champions the Springboks in how their successes have helped unite the country. 

“The word that comes to mind is special, special for this group, special for myself, for the country. I’m not a big rugby fan but I watch the rugby guys and I think the biggest thing I admire about them is their success. How they kind of gone about and embraced what being South African actually means,” Bavuma said.

“In South Africa we are unique in a lot of ways, our present and future is shaped by our past and I think the way that they’ve gone about it to capture the hearts of everyone has really made us love them and I think us within the cricket that’s something that we’ve spoken about to really do something special. 

“So, 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 come together.”

READ: Orbit College frustrates Cape Town City in goalless playoff clash

As Kyle Verreyne hit the winning run, Bavuma cut a picture of catharsis in the dressing room, and says it was in that moment that he took in what they’d just done. 

He says he realised how important it was that he did not give up even when he’s had to endure harsh hardships in the past.

“Yeah, I think at that moment I kind of 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 and all the sacrifices, all the disappointment at that moment really feels worth it, you know,” he added. 

“When you’re going through it all, giving up is always an option, it’s always there, it’s always at the back of your mind but something kind of builds you on. I think for me, it was that moment there to be recognised more than just a black African cricketer but to be seen as someone who’s done something that the country has wanted. 

“So, I think that’s something that I’d definitely walk around with my chest out and again I hope that it continues to inspire our country.