South Africa's head coach, Shukri Conrad, has lauded Test and ODI captain Temba Bavuma as the "best player" in the Proteas setup, emphasizing the calmness, leadership, and quiet demeanor that the 35-year-old brings to the team. This endorsement comes ahead of the two-Test series against India, with the first match scheduled to commence on Friday at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Bavuma's return to the squad is particularly significant, as he missed South Africa's tour to Pakistan last month due to a calf strain. The series against Pakistan ended in a 1-1 draw, highlighting the team's resilience even in the absence of their key player. Conrad acknowledged the team's ability to win a Test match without their best player instilled confidence within the team.

Since 2023, Bavuma has been instrumental in South Africa's success, amassing 911 runs in 10 Tests at an impressive average of 56.93. His leadership was also evident in South Africa A's recent victory against India A, where he contributed a vital 59 off 101 balls in the second innings, guiding his team to a five-wicket triumph while chasing a daunting target of 417.

Conrad has emphasized the importance of Bavuma gaining time on the crease before the series. He highlighted Bavuma's record and the calmness he brings to the batting unit, as well as his leadership qualities and quiet demeanor, which collectively instill confidence within the team.

Bavuma's journey to becoming a leader in South African cricket has been groundbreaking. He was the first black African cricketer to captain the South African side and the first to score a Test century for South Africa. He is also one of only three South African cricketers to score a century on his ODI debut.

Despite his achievements, Bavuma has faced his share of challenges, including controversies and injury concerns. He suffered a hamstring strain during the World Test Championship final and has been troubled by an elbow injury since 2022. These injuries have caused him to miss crucial matches, raising concerns about his fitness and longevity.

However, Conrad remains confident in Bavuma's desire to maintain peak condition and believes that the medical staff can help him overcome these injury woes. He also acknowledged that age is not on Bavuma's side.

Bavuma himself remains focused on the upcoming challenges. He recognizes the competitiveness between spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, acknowledging that their skills make his job as captain easier. He also believes that the long layoff from Test cricket has been a blessing in disguise, allowing him to stay fresh and eager.

South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad believes that playing India in their own backyard is the biggest challenge his side will face. Conrad has likened the Test series to the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final against Australia.

With the Test series against India on the horizon, both Bavuma and Conrad are optimistic about South Africa's chances. Bavuma aims to carry the confidence gained from their World Test Championship victory into the series, while Conrad trusts his team, including the spin trio of Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, and Simon Harmer, to rise to the occasion.