Kolkata: Temba Bavuma, the captain of the South African cricket team, has expressed his strong desire for his squad to demonstrate their mettle against India in the upcoming Test series, which starts November 14 at Eden Gardens. Bavuma believes that winning this series would be second only to their World Test Championship (WTC) victory earlier this year.
South Africa has struggled in India over the years, with their last Test win dating back to 2010 in Nagpur. They have lost their last seven consecutive Tests in India across three tours. Recognizing the scale of the challenge, Bavuma emphasized the importance of this series for his team. He acknowledged that some players in the squad have experienced "moments of hurt" while playing in India, fueling their determination to succeed this time.
"Winning the World Test Championship... not much to trump that. But second to that, I think will be winning in India," Bavuma stated. He further added, "It's something that's I wouldn't even say it's eluded us, but we haven't been able to do for the longest of time. So, I mean, that's definitely up there in terms of ambition".
Bavuma recognizes the strengths of the Indian team but also sees an opportunity due to the blend of youth and transition in both squads, which he believes could make the contest unpredictable. He is confident that his team, which remains unbeaten in full-strength Test series since Shukri Conrad took over as coach in 2023, possesses the maturity and belief needed to pose a serious challenge.
The South African captain also shared a lighthearted moment, recalling advice he received from former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson. "I met Kane at an awards event in Mumbai and asked for some advice," Bavuma said. "He wasn't too revealing but told me, 'Make sure you win the toss'".
The two-Test series is part of the ongoing World Test Championship 2025-27. India, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, aims to secure crucial home points to strengthen their position for a top-two finish and qualify for the WTC 2027 final. Currently, India holds the third position in the WTC 2025-27 standings.
The first Test begins November 14 in Kolkata, followed by the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati starting November 22. Following the Test matches, the teams will compete in three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and five Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
Bavuma's return to the team is a significant boost for South Africa, especially after their drawn Test series in Pakistan. Head coach Conrad Shukri has praised Bavuma's calmness, leadership, and the confidence he brings to the team.
The India vs South Africa Test series will be broadcast on Star Sports Network, with live streaming available on JioHotstar.
India Squad: Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (WK) (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep.
South Africa Squad: Temba Bavuma (C), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne.
