Bavuma Reflects on Australia’s Evolving On-Field Conduct

Temba Bavuma was keenly aware of the psychological tactics employed by Australia during the fourth day of the ICC World Test Championship final held at Lord’s.

The long-standing label of being ‘chokers’ resurfaced, but by the day’s conclusion, South Africa had successfully laid that reputation to rest.

As they resumed play on the fourth day, needing 69 runs for victory, Bavuma and Aiden Markram were subjected to considerable pressure. The Australian team ensured the Proteas understood that triumph was not yet guaranteed.

The intensity heightened when Pat Cummins dismissed Bavuma, with a catch behind when 65 runs were still required. Subsequently, Mitchell Starc’s exceptional delivery uprooted Tristan Stubbs’ off-stump, narrowing the target to 41.

However, Aiden Markram displayed resilience, steering his team toward victory with a noteworthy innings performed under duress.

Following the match, Bavuma commented on the noticeable shift in Australia’s on-field behavior in recent times, alluding to the contentious 2018 series, while acknowledging that subtle attempts to unsettle the Proteas persisted.

He noted, “In recent years, playing against Australia has been somewhat different. They are not as verbally assertive on the field. While their aggression is evident through their body language and skill, there is significantly less verbal interaction.”

“This morning, the ‘chokers’ label was indeed mentioned. One of their players highlighted the possibility of us losing our eight wickets within 60 runs. I distinctly heard that,” he added.

“Aiden consistently reiterated the importance of staying focused after each over, emphasizing the need to remain locked in and concede nothing. So, while there wasn’t much chatter, there were a few remarks made,” Bavuma explained.

Australia exerted maximum effort to prolong the match, even opting for the second new ball.

By that point, South Africa only required 14 runs, and Markram decisively sent the new ball’s first delivery to the midwicket boundary, bringing them within striking distance of victory.

Cummins stated, “The aim was to extend the game as much as possible, attempting to secure two runs per over for the pace bowlers. Nathan Lyon appeared threatening, and with the potential for cloud cover or unusual behavior from the new ball, the strategy was to prolong the match, capitalizing on mounting nerves.”

Markram, who displayed emotion upon reaching his century on the third evening and had previously spoken about past disappointments, including the prior year’s T20 World Cup, expressed hope that this victory would finally end the unfavorable narrative.

He stated, “It would be fantastic to never hear it mentioned again. While external factors can provide motivation, they are not the sole reason for playing. Achieving this victory and dispelling that label is significant for the team.”

Cummins commendably acknowledged Markram’s composed innings and recognized South Africa’s well-deserved triumph.

He remarked, “Several of us have played alongside him in the IPL and hold him in high regard. Aiden is a good person. Unfortunately for us, he made it seem relatively straightforward and constructed a substantial innings. Despite our efforts, he had a response for everything.”

“Although everyone’s path to the final differs slightly, they undeniably earned their place and demonstrated why they are deserving champions,” Cummins concluded.