Bavuma’s “gutsy” innings sparks SA fightback
The Guardian highlights his spirited counterattack in the WTC Final. Trailing by over 100, Bavuma launched a bold assault on Australia’s premier pace bowlers, rallying South Africa behind him.
- DRS controversy: edge or no edge? On Day 2, Bavuma’s LBW was overturned through UltraEdge review, triggering widespread discussion among players, commentators, and fans. Some questioned whether he had other reasons to believe he’d nicked the ball.
- Driver of a Test transformation
Reflecting on South Africa’s heavy defeat during their 2022–23 Australia tour, Bavuma said it was an “eye‑opener” that helped shape the team into contenders for the WTC Final
theguardian.com. - Strategic insight: targeting Australia’s openers
Bavuma revealed South Africa planned to exploit Australia’s newly shuffled opening pair (Khawaja/Labuschagne), believing the swinging Lord’s conditions would favor early wickets - Fitness concern during chase
Live reports note Bavuma received physiotherapy for a calf/hamstring issue on Day 3, raising some alarm about his physical state. - Pre-match feature in Times of India: Bavuma opened up about his childhood dream of playing at Lord’s, recalling how he called a street in Langa “Lord’s” as a kid
- Baseline profile by AllSides: Titled “Temba Bavuma on …”, it delves into the pressures of pioneering as South Africa’s first black Test captain, and how he handles expectations
- South Africa Playing XI announced, signaling their intent for a balanced lineup . Day 2 began poorly with South Africa collapsing, but Rabada and Ngidi fought back
- theguardian.com.
Day 3 remains finely poised: Australia declared around 207 in their 2nd innings, Rabada claimed key wickets, Bavuma battled despite physical probs
⏭ What’s Next?
Day 4 & 5 of the WTC Final (June 14–15): Can Bavuma stay fit and anchor the chase?Upcoming Series: After the final, South Africa heads to Zimbabwe for two Tests and a tri‑series T20I, with Bavuma leading.