A poignant and inspiring moment unfolded on the third day of the World Test Championship 2025 (WTC Final 2025) when South African captain Temba Bavuma, despite a significant injury, remained resolute on the field.
Sports News: In the World Test Championship 2025 final, South African captain Temba Bavuma not only displayed resolute batting but also captivated cricket fans with his indomitable courage and spirit. On the third day, when South Africa's score was in jeopardy, Bavuma not only sustained an injury but also refused to leave the field, vowing to persevere.
Bavuma Remains on the Field Despite Injury
During the third day's play, in the 22nd over, Bavuma suffered a hamstring strain. Normally, in such a situation, a batsman would retire hurt, but Bavuma refused to concede defeat. He experienced considerable difficulty running, yet he not only rotated the strike but also strengthened the partnership. By the end of the third day's play, he had scored 65 runs off 134 balls and remained at the crease.
At the start of the fourth day, Bavuma's innings was cut short, dismissed by Pat Cummins. However, he had reached 66 runs (134 balls, 5 fours). Bavuma's innings will be remembered not just for the numbers but also for its demonstration of grit. His 46 runs scored running between the wickets were nothing short of a battle won, considering his physical pain.
Partnership with Markram
Bavuma and Aiden Markram forged a 147-run partnership, the third-highest fourth-innings partnership by an overseas team at Lord's. Only West Indies' Larry Gomes-Gordon Greenidge (287*) and Australia's Michael Clarke-Brad Haddin (185) rank higher. This partnership came at a crucial juncture when South Africa had lost early wickets and were under immense pressure. Bavuma and Markram batted cautiously, bringing stability to the match.
- 287* - Larry Gomes, Gordon Greenidge (West Indies), 1984
- 185 - Michael J Clarke, Brad Haddin (Australia), 2009
- 147 - Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram (South Africa), 2025
- 126 - Ajit Agarkar, VVS Laxman (India), 2002
- 119 - Ian Chappell, Rick McCosker (Australia), 1975
Smith's Dropped Catch: A Turning Point
A significant turning point in this courageous innings came when Bavuma, on just 2 runs, was dropped at slip by Steve Smith. This miss proved costly for Australia. Had that catch been taken, South Africa's innings might have been curtailed well under 100. Bavuma capitalized on this reprieve, carrying his score to 66 and the partnership to 147 runs.
