Temba Bavuma has revealed that the Australian cricket team engaged in sledging tactics during the World Test Championship (WTC) final, using South Africa's historical "chokers" tag to try and unsettle the Proteas. This revelation adds another layer to the intense rivalry between the two cricketing nations and highlights the mental battles that often accompany high-stakes matches.
Bavuma, speaking after South Africa's historic five-wicket victory over Australia at Lord's, confirmed that he heard the Australians using the word "choke" while the South African team was batting on the fourth day of the WTC final. The South Africans were chasing 282 runs to win. With eight wickets in hand, they needed 69 runs to win, but one of the Australian players reminded him of South Africa's record in ICC knockouts, suggesting they could still be bowled out.
The "chokers" tag has long haunted South African cricket. The team has often been criticized for failing to perform at their best in crucial moments of major tournaments. This reputation stems from several heartbreaking defeats in ICC events since 1999, including nine semi-final losses in World Cups and Champions Trophy tournaments. The 1999 World Cup semi-final against Australia, which ended in a tie after a dramatic run-out, remains a particularly painful memory for South African fans.
Bavuma acknowledged the weight of this history and the impact it can have on the team's mindset. He emphasized that overcoming this mental hurdle was a significant part of their victory in the WTC final. This win, which ended a 27-year trophy drought for South Africa, was not just a triumph of skill but also a testament to the team's resilience and mental fortitude.
Aiden Markram, who was named Player of the Match for his magnificent century in the final, echoed Bavuma's sentiments. He expressed his hope that the "chokers" tag would no longer be associated with the South African team. Markram said that getting rid of that tag was a big accomplishment for the team.
Despite the pressure and sledging from the Australians, Bavuma and Markram formed a crucial partnership of 147 runs, laying the foundation for South Africa's successful chase. Bavuma himself contributed a gritty 66 runs, battling through a hamstring injury to ensure his team stayed on course for victory.
Bavuma's leadership throughout the WTC final was commendable. His decision to bowl first after winning the toss proved to be a masterstroke, and his determination with the bat, despite his injury, inspired his teammates.
The victory in the WTC final represents a significant moment for South African cricket. It is an opportunity for the nation to unite and celebrate a shared success. Bavuma hopes that this win will inspire the country and encourage more people to support South African cricket.
The win also holds broader implications for the global cricket landscape. Bavuma expressed his hope that their success would make South Africa a more attractive opponent for other major cricketing nations, leading to more opportunities to play Test cricket against top-ranked teams. He said that he hopes that they can inspire a lot of people, not just in their country, but all the other nations as well and that this will go a long way in making them more attractive.
While the Australian team has faced criticism for their sledging tactics, South Africa's response on the field has earned them widespread praise. Their victory in the WTC final is a reminder that mental strength and resilience are just as important as skill in the game of cricket.
