South Africa captain Temba Bavuma revealed that Australia did everything they could to try and break his team’s resolve during the World Test Championship final. The Australian team has long been known for crossing the line with aggressive sledging, leading to several controversies over the years. Although the current side, led by Pat Cummins, is considered to be more restrained, they reportedly went too far once again in the WTC final against South Africa. As the Proteas edged closer to victory on Day 4 at Lord’s, the Australians allegedly used the term “choke” in an attempt to rattle Bavuma and his teammates.
Australia’s Mind Games Fail as South Africa End ‘Chokers’ Narrative, Says Bavuma
Australia seemed to try every trick in the book to break the Temba Bavuma–Aiden Markram partnership. Speaking after leading South Africa to the WTC final win, Bavuma revealed that he heard Australian players using the word “choke” while he was batting.
“While we were out there, we could hear the Aussies throwing around that dreaded word: choke,” Bavuma told BBC Test Match Special. “We came in with belief, despite a lot of doubters. People questioned how we made it to the final. This win silences them. It’s a moment of unity for our country, despite all our divisions.”
He added, “As a nation, this is something we can celebrate together, putting aside our problems. I hope it inspires and continues to inspire. A lot of people didn’t believe in us, but the way we played should put those doubts to rest.”
Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj also addressed the long-standing ‘chokers’ label that’s haunted South African cricket. He hopes this victory finally lays it to rest.
“It’ll be great to never hear that word again. Getting the job done and shedding that tag means a lot to this team. All those questions from the past have now been answered,” said Maharaj, who was also the match’s only centurion.
Meanwhile, Australian skipper Pat Cummins admitted that changes might be necessary for his team to regroup and move forward.
“We’ve got a squad that got us to the final, but now it’s about identifying the right time to make changes,” Cummins said. “After a loss like this, everything is back on the table. It’s a bit of a reset, and now it’s up to me and the selectors to sit down and plan our way forward.