Harris marks Bavuma's return critical for Proteas in India: He's our best player

FORMER spinner Paul Harris believes Temba Bavuma’s return to the Test side is a major boost to the Proteas’ chances in the upcoming two-match series against India.

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

The world Test champions face arguably their greatest challenge since head coach Shukri Conrad assumed control of the red-ball side back in February 2023, with the first Test starting at the citadel of Indian cricket, Eden Gardens, on Saturday.

The Proteas have only ever won one series in India, all the way back in February 2000, when the late Hansie Cronje’s team claimed a historic 2-0 triumph.

Equally, they have lost seven of their last eight Test matches in India, with the last victory being in Nagpur 15-years ago, when Proteas legends Dale Steyn and Hashim Amla combined with a 10-wicket match haul and an unbeaten 253 to drive the visitors to an innings-and-six run win.

This is the history that the Proteas will be up against, and Harris believes Bavuma's return from injury will go a long way in aiding the cause.

“We need Temba back,” said Harris, who claimed three second innings wickets in the Nagpur victory.