Proteas captain Temba Bavuma has praised his team’s resilience, patience and unity after South Africa levelled the three-match Test series against Australia at 1-1 at St George’s Park in Gqeberha.
South Africa secured an innings-and-31-run victory, with Bavuma scoring a career-best 179 runs to earn the Man of the Match award.
“It was very much a spirited effort from us. A lot was asked of us after our first Test in Durban. The biggest challenge was the character and mentality of the team,” Bavuma said during a post-match interview.
He highlighted the team’s determination after South Africa found themselves struggling at 110/6 on the morning of the third day of the second Test.
However, partnerships involving Bavuma, Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer helped South Africa reach 425/9 before declaring their innings on the third day.
Bavuma also praised fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, who returned from injury and claimed four Australian wickets.
“Kagiso is hugely valuable, both on and off the field. When he plays, he takes responsibility and the pressure of leading the attack, allowing everyone else to focus on their roles,” Bavuma said.
The two teams will meet in the third and final Test at Newlands in Cape Town on Tuesday.
