Bavuma: Proteas aspire to have Boks image, impact

PROTEAS Test and ODI captain Temba Bavuma says the team aspires to have the same impact as the Springboks, both in South Africa and on the global stage.

- ONGAMA GCWABE

Following the Proteas’ historic victory at Lord’s in the World Test Championship final, cricket has seen a resurgence in popularity, with fans across the country rallying behind the sport once again.

Despite this renewed support, Bavuma and his teammates understand that there’s still a long journey ahead to reach their ultimate goal: achieving the same level of national and international esteem as the Springboks.

“I think within rugby, all of us look at the rugby guys - whenever they go to a world event, there’s proper belief that the guys can go all the way. We've seen it countless times, so that expectation is high,” Bavuma said.

“From a South African cricketing point of view, yes, we might go there with hope, but there’s probably a part of the fan base that isn’t fully convinced.

I think with what we've achieved, particularly winning the WTC Final, that belief is growing. Now, expectations are going to be higher and higher”