South Africa considered pulling captain Temba Bavuma from the crease on the third day of the Test at Lord’s after he sustained a hamstring injury early in his innings. Aiden Markram, seeing the value in their partnership, convinced the team to press on, moving South Africa close to victory in the World Test Championship.
Bavuma was at 6 when he injured his hamstring two overs before tea, requiring extensive on-field treatment. His running between wickets was visibly hindered, yet there was scant evidence to suggest Australia exploited this. “We had to make a big call whether he continues to bat and how it will affect his strokeplay, how that might affect Aiden’s rhythm,” explained Ashwell Prince, South Africa’s batting coach. “Both of them were adamant that Temba was going to continue. He wanted to continue.”
Markram was mindful of adapting to Bavuma’s condition, altering his running pace to accommodate his captain. By the day’s end, the duo remained unbeaten, amassing a partnership of 143 with Markram reaching a stellar century. There are doubts, however, about Bavuma’s condition after restful sleep, though he is expected to continue. “Temba is tough,” Prince stated. “Aiden has great respect for Temba. In fact, I think this team’s greatest strength is the unity that they have in this camp.”
Despite the promising position, Prince avoided making bold predictions about Bavuma’s weekend performance. “He’s had to fight throughout his career, and this could be a defining moment for his career,” he remarked. “I believe it’s the biggest stage in terms of Test cricket. Maybe I should answer the question after the game.”
As eyes remain fixed on Bavuma’s condition and South Africa’s progress, unity and resilience seem to be the team’s foremost assets.
