SA vs ENG: "I Will Captain The Side As Long As Team-Mates And Management Want"

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South African Cricket Team is all set to lock horns against England for the 3 Match ODI Series starting on 27th January (Saturday). This would be the first time South Africa would play after the T20 WC disappointment where skipper Temba Bavuma was heavily criticized for his tactics and batting.

It won’t be wrong to say that this ODI Series is a do-or-die contest for South Africa as they are placed in 11th position with 59 points from 16 matches. The Proteas would require a helluva of effort to win the Series as England would be well prepared.

South Africa National Cricket Team, Image Credits: Twitter)

Temba Bavuma on Captaincy

Temba Bavuma was having an interaction with reporters ahead of 1st ODI against England. “At the T20 World Cup, the question [about captaincy] was asked. It was obviously quite an emotional time. It was a bit unfair to be asked that question right after walking off the field after a loss. Conversations were had with the relevant people and I am still in it. I’ve said to the guys if they would still like me to be the guy to lead, I am happy to do it. I’ve never ever made it about me, it’s always been about the team,” said Temba Bavuma.

“If the team wants to go in a different direction with a different leader, I am happy to step away. Ultimately it’s up to the coach. We have got a new coach and a new coaching staff; the coach will have his vision and he will need somebody to drive that vision. At the moment the coach has entrusted me with that role so I will continue doing my best. Fortunately, I have got a bunch of guys that support me. For me, it’s business as usual for now,” he added.

Temba Bavuma On Approach

Temba Bavuma was asked about whether South Africa will adopt England’s aggressive approach. “It’s something that has been spoken about – wanting to be a lot more positive, wanting to be a lot more brave and always looking to take the option that puts either the batter or the bowler under pressure. They are the pioneers – not just white-ball cricket, even in red-ball cricket,” said Temba Bavuma.

Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen. Credits: Getty Images

“We are South Africans. We have our way of thinking, our way of doing things. There’s nothing wrong with us taking a little bit from England, putting it together and seeing what comes about. With the personnel we have, guys going out and expressing themselves…if that equates to a South African Bazball way of playing – to use a stupid term – then so be it. If it means we are going to go out there and block the shit out of the ball, so be it,” he added.

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