“Well positioned to build on the momentum” – Temba Bavuma is optimistic about his World Cup campaign in India

South Africa qualified directly for the 2023 ODI World Cup in India after Bangladesh’s World Cup Super League match against Ireland in Chelmsford was postponed due to rain. Despite his team’s difficult journey over the past few years, Proteas captain Temba Bavuma has preserved a positive outlook.

Since the beginning of the qualification matches, Temba Bavuma’s side has struggled in the 50-over format, and their chances suffered a major setback when they skipped a crucial ODI series against Australia in order to participate in the inaugural SA20.

Temba Bavuma acknowledged that it was not a smooth procedure for the team, but he is pleased with the team’s response over the past few months, which included a morale-boosting series win against the reigning champions, England. He believes that their recent performances will help them generate momentum for this year’s ICC mega event.

“I am pleased to discover that we have qualified for the upcoming 50-over World Cup, which will be held in India later this year. It has been a difficult journey for us as a 50-over team to get to this stage, but I believe a lot of positive progress has been made as a team in the last couple of months. Bavuma told the ICC that we are well positioned to capitalize on the momentum and confidence we’ve gained.

I believe we can accomplish great things as a group: Temba Bavuma

South Africa hopes to improve on their ICC performances in the major tournament that India is hosting, which produced only three victories during their previous World Cup campaign in 2019. After the conclusion of the 2019 World Cup, athletes such as JP Duminy, Hashim Amla, Dale Steyn, and Faf du Plessis will no longer be a part of the South African squad.

“Now is the ideal time for us to focus on the World Cup from a preparation standpoint, solidify our plans, and brush up on areas where we feel we need improvement. Bavuma added, “It will be a great honor and privilege for me to lead the team in my first-ever 50-over World Cup, and I hope we can achieve success as a group.”