Temba Bavuma's wholesome moment with son and WTC mace gets thumbs-up from fans

Temba Bavuma, the captain, played a significant role in South Africa's historic win at Lord's.

Moneycontrol News

June 15, 2025 / 13:14 IST

Temba Bavuma's wholesome moment with son and WTC mace gets thumbs-up from fans (ICC Photo)

Temba Bavuma-led South Africa defied odds and defeated Pat Cummins' Australia to clinch the World Test Championship (WTC) mace at Lord's on Saturday. The victory was a combined effort by the Proteas unit but there were few standout performers, who ensured the rainbow nation ended their 27-year long drought at ICC competitions. Aiden Markram stands top of that list as he smashed 136 in the fourth innings to guide South Africa home in the second highest successful run-chase (282) at the venue in Tests. Kagiso Rabada also had a big role to play as he registered a five-wicket haul in the first innings and added four more wickets to his tally in the second essay.

If we talk about Bavuma, the captain too played a significant role in the historic win. He started by winning the toss and inviting Australia to bat first, a decision which was influenced by the overcast skies on Day 1. The move paid-off as many questioned his decision but South Africa jolted four scalps in the opening day of the Test. Secondly, he scored a gritty 36(84) in the first innings and took his team to 94/5 after being reduced to 30/4. This was second highest individual score from the Proteas camp after David Bedingham's 45(111).

Also Read | Big picture – South Africa’s WTC triumph nourishes Test cricket

Then came his final contribution, which eventually proved to be the decisive one. He scored 66(134) in the second innings and was involved in a match-defining 147-run partnership with Aiden Markram for the third wicket. The partnership between the two gave South Africa cushion in a staggering run-chase, considering Australia's attack comprising Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, and Beau Webster. During the course of his innings, Bavuma also pulled a hamstring but continued to battle on the field, reflecting great character.

Soon after the moment, the Proteas skipper was seen celebrating the title with his son, visuals of which were an instant hit with fans. Here are a few reactions: