Tough times ‘seem to bring out the best in me’ – Temba Bavuma

By Alex, CricTips Editorial Team · How we predict.

Tough Times ‘Bring Out the Best in Me’ – Temba Bavuma

Match: 2nd Test, South Africa vs Australia – St George’s Park (Oct 20)
Result so far: SA 425/9 declared (Bavuma 179), AUS 3/1 (play stopped by bad light).

Key Highlights

• Temba Bavuma scored a career‑best 179 (334 balls, 18 fours, 1 six) – his fifth Test century.
• Partnership highlights:
  • 132 with Marco Jansen.
  • 183 with Simon Harmer – an eight‑wicket stand, a South African record.
• SA recovered from 12/2 to a commanding total despite a rain‑affected start (137 overs lost on Days 1‑2).

Bavuma’s Comments (summarised)

• “The conditions favored the bowlers, but I thrive in pressure situations.”
• “My aim is always to put the team in a competitive position; this innings finally gave me that chance.”
• “Marco attacked the bowlers and found gaps; Simon applied himself and made the wickets expensive.”
• “Batting didn’t get easier; I just stuck to a tight, straight‑bat plan and extended it as long as possible.”
• “We still have two days left. To win we must spend most of that time in the field and exploit the new ball.”

Match Context

• After a 12/2 collapse and being 97/5, SA looked doomed.
• Australia won the 1st Test by 214 runs at Kingsmead.
• Weather remains a factor; further interruptions are possible.

Outlook

• SA needs to bowl out Australia quickly and make the most of the remaining two days.
• Bavuma’s innings has shifted momentum, but the series is still open.