Temba Bavuma Leads South Africa’s Charge in WTC 2023-25 Final Against Australia. South Africa are taking on Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final at Lord’s. Chasing a target of 282 in the final innings, the Proteas have taken firm control of the game, finishing Day 3 at 213/2.
Aiden Markram remained unbeaten on 102, while skipper Temba Bavuma provided strong support with an unbeaten 65. Together, they stitched a crucial 143-run stand for the third wicket, pushing South Africa within touching distance of a historic victory. With just 69 runs needed to seal the win, South Africa are on the verge of ending their 27-year wait for an ICC title and clinching their maiden WTC crown.
Despite suffering a hamstring strain during the afternoon session, Bavuma battled through the discomfort and stayed at the crease, playing a pivotal role in guiding his team closer to the target.
Revealed: The Reason Temba Bavuma Kept Batting Despite Hamstring Injury
After the end of Day 3, South Africa’s batting coach Ashwell Prince explained why Temba Bavuma chose to continue batting despite suffering from a hamstring injury during the match. According to Prince, the team management had advised Bavuma to retire hurt during the tea break, but the South African captain was determined to carry on. Remarkably, he went on to hit five boundaries in his innings.
Prince shared that Aiden Markram had a conversation with Bavuma, urging him to give his all in the crucial contest. He credited the team’s strong sense of unity for Bavuma’s resolve to fight through the pain.
“As soon as Aiden and Temba came up the stairs, Temba said we’re going to stick to our usual routine tonight and tomorrow — same warm-up, same processes. We know what’s at stake, but we need to stay calm,” said Prince.
“It’s not over yet, but Temba has had to fight throughout his career, and this could be a defining moment for him. It’s the biggest stage in Test cricket. Temba Bavuma mentally tough, and Aiden really respects him. I believe our team’s greatest strength is its unity,” he added.
Prince also highlighted the special bond within the South African dressing room, saying it plays a crucial role in helping players support each other in difficult moments.
“You can see it in the way they celebrate wickets Temba Bavuma it says a lot. South Africa may have had bigger individual stars in the past, but this group has something special, and that helps them push each other forward,” he concluded.