Kolkata, Nov 13 (NationPress) For Temba Bavuma, few cricketing challenges are as enticing as defeating India on their home turf. The captain of the South African team, who guided his squad to victory in the World Test Championship (WTC) earlier this year, asserts that a series win in India would be just a notch below that international achievement in importance.

“I believe that winning the World Test Championship is unparalleled. However, achieving victory in India would be a close second,” Bavuma remarked ahead of the first Test at Eden Gardens. “It’s something we haven’t accomplished in a long time. This is certainly a significant ambition for us.”

South Africa has not secured a Test win in India since 2010 and has faced defeat in seven consecutive matches over three tours. Nevertheless, Bavuma is confident that his current squad — undefeated in all full-strength Test series since Shukri Conrad took the reins in 2023 — possesses the poise, confidence, and experience required to alter this narrative.

“We comprehend the enormity of the challenge. Some team members have experienced past disappointments, so we understand what’s at stake,” he expressed. “We eagerly anticipate the challenge. It’s thrilling to consider the roster of both teams — exceptional players in the Indian lineup, but with some inexperience. Similarly, our team members are eager to compete against the best in the world.”

Bavuma also reminisced about a lighter moment with former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who was part of the team that achieved an impressive 3-0 Test victory over India in their own conditions last year.

“I ran into Kane at an awards ceremony in India a couple of months ago. I sought some advice from him,” Bavuma shared. “He wasn’t very forthcoming, but he did mention the importance of winning the toss. So, I’ve been practicing it.”

The South African captain, making his return from a lengthy injury absence, prepared by scoring runs and spending time in the middle during the second unofficial Test against India A. After a golden duck in the first innings, Bavuma managed a composed fifty in the second — indicating that his rhythm is gradually returning.

“For me, the most significant aspect was getting back on the field following a long absence from Test cricket, demonstrating my fitness to myself and others, and spending time at the crease. That was crucial,” he stated.

In that match, Bavuma also faced Kuldeep Yadav for the first time and was impressed. “I’d prefer to face him in the A game rather than here in Kolkata — that is if he plays,” he joked. “He doesn’t turn the ball excessively, but he can certainly deceive you off the wicket. It’s clear why India has significant trust in him. He’s definitely a wicket-taker.”

The Test at Eden Gardens also signifies an emotional return for Bavuma, two years following South Africa’s 83-run collapse in an ODI World Cup match at the same venue — a low point that led to intense scrutiny of his batting and leadership.

“It wasn’t my best World Cup from a batting perspective. Thus, I understand why the criticism arose,” he reflected. “From a captaincy perspective, it has always felt like a journey of self-discovery. You continuously learn more about yourself. I now feel much more at ease in my own skin. There’s no longer a need to prove to myself or to those back home that I’m worthy of this title. The results speak for themselves.”

Bavuma understands that scrutiny will always be part of the role. “The spotlight will always be on you. Therefore, you strive to take it one day at a time and enjoy it. Coming to India, as I mentioned, is a significant challenge. As a batter, you aim to succeed in these conditions.”

With South Africa’s traditional Boxing Day and New Year’s Tests absent from this year’s schedule, Bavuma remarked that the tour of India has become their premier event.

“This Test series has become our festive season,” he noted. “It’s unfortunate for us as players and fans, but we’ll endeavor to make the most of it. We would love to play more Tests against India, England, and Australia — perhaps not just two, but three.”

“Back home, there’s been a substantial shift in mindset towards the Proteas. I believe there’s now a greater appreciation,” he added. “Some of our players weren’t even born during those World Cups. For us, it’s not something we carry. The victory in the World Test Championship provided relief — and strengthened our belief that perseverance leads to positive outcomes.”