'I am just comfortable with myself' - Temba Bavuma on his outlook after famous win in Kolkata Test

Published - 16 Nov 2025, 17:33 IST | Updated - 16 Nov 2025, 17:37 IST

South African Test captain Temba Bavuma has praised the bowlers for having kept the visitors in the game during the first Test at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata against India. India were bowled out for 189 and 93 in their first and second innings, respectively, as they fell to a 30-run defeat, with the Proteas now leading the two-match series 1-0.

Bavuma admitted that batting was tough all throughout the contest. He commended the effort of the bowling unit for not letting the game drift away from the Proteas at any juncture. He also opened up on his batting and the manner in which Bavuma had planned out batting during South Africa's second innings in particular. Bavuma also acknowledged that he had come into the tour with more 'awareness' in relation to his game in general.

"We want to be a part of these games and be on the right side of the result. It was tough for us and we needed the bowlers to bring us back in. We were able to change our bowlers frequently and that worked for us. Our bowlers, as and when they were called, brought us in," stated Bavuma during the post-match presentation.

"My stand with Bosch was nice. The wicket played better this morning, wasn't as extreme. It is not all the time that you score 120 and believe you are in the game. Batting, I am just comfortable with myself and technique. I stand as still as I can, watch the ball. I have come here wanting to do well. Not a great record, but I have come here with exuberance and wanting to do well. It was about awareness, the leg opening up a little bit," he added.

There were no demons in Kolkata wicket: Gautam Gambhir

South Africa defending 124 in the fourth innings made them break into an esteemed list of defending the second-lowest target in Tests in India. Simon Harmer (4/30 and 4/21) starred in particular to secure the Player of the Match award. Marco Jansen also picked up five wickets across the match to help South Africa break crucial partnerships.

The second Test is scheduled to be played at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati from November 22.