Selfless Bavuma puts leadership first

Bavuma puts selfless leadership first

Proteas white-ball captain Temba Bavuma says he will put the badge on the front of his shirt before the name on the back during the current series in India.

South Africa is gearing up towards the T20 World Cup in Australia next month with an outbound tour to the subcontinent, where conditions vastly contrast those Down Under, but Bavuma highlights the importance of competitive action nonetheless.

"Obviously in this series, we'll be looking to fill whatever gaps we feel are there within the team. We've got guys that have been playing a lot of cricket, so it would be to manage those guys' intensity, and we also have some guys who need some cricket under their belt, so we'll give those guys an opportunity," said Bavuma ahead of the first T20 today.

"But, ja, this is our last preparations [in] different conditions albeit India vs Australia, but it's still match-time nevertheless."

Having made headlines over the last two weeks following his snub at the inaugural SA20 Auction, after also missing out the England tour due to an elbow injury since June, the 32-year-old has ruled out trying to prove a point in the three-match 20-over series and insists selfless leadership is required of him as the skipper.

"To be honest, my focus is on the team. I obviously still have a role as the captain, which is to lead and serve the team as best as I can," he added.

"All focus for me, honestly, is on the World Cup and making sure that we are in the best space possible going into that tournament. Everything else, I'm trying not to give it much attention or energy and, at this moment, it's to serve the team as best as I can."

By Web Admin