New Delhi, 24 December (H.S.): South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma disclosed on Wednesday that Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah had apologized to him for comments made in their language during the first Test at Kolkata's Eden Gardens.
Leading South Africa to a 2-0 Test series triumph over India, Bavuma stated that while such incidents linger in memory, no bitterness persists. The episode, captured on stump microphone on day one, featured Bumrah and Pant referring to Bavuma as dwarf during a 14th-over LBW appeal.
Reacting to ESPNcricinfo, Bavuma remarked, Series against India are always intense. A heated atmosphere makes contests more thrilling and motivates players further. As long as mutual respect endures, on-field exchanges remain part of the game.He elaborated, An incident occurred where they commented about me in their language.
Ultimately, two senior players—Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah—approached and apologized. I was unaware of the issue until then; later, I consulted my media manager.Bavuma clarified that field utterances endure as motivation rather than grudges. What happens on the field stays there, but words stick. You channel them into energy and drive without personal enmity.
Addressing head coach Shukri Conrad's controversial grovel remark, Bavuma acknowledged better word choice was needed. Shukri faced backlash for 'grovel.' It felt uncomfortable initially, but it underscored the series' fierceness. Post-ODI series, he clarified and admitted a superior term existed, with which I concur.
Notably, under Bavuma's leadership, South Africa secured a Test series win in India—last achieved in 2000 by Hansie Cronje. He revealed pre-tour preparations with Conrad months ahead, learning from 2015 and 2019 failures.
We discussed India extensively—what team composition, player types, and strategies for success. Planning predated arrival; the series foundation was laid early.
Concluding, Bavuma hailed the 25-year feat as a team feather in the cap. We're progressing consistently as a Test outfit.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
