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"Conversations Have Been…" Bavuma On Rabada's Drug-Ban Ahead Of WTC Final

Aashay Chopade

Temba Bavuma feels Rabada is ready for Australia (Source:@ClubCricketSA/X.com)Temba Bavuma feels Rabada is ready for Australia (Source:@ClubCricketSA/X.com)

South Africa are all set to take on Australia in the all-important WTC final at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. Australia are the defending champions while South Africa are eyeing their first ICC trophy since the famous win in the 1998 Knockout Cup.

Temba Bavuma Backs His Main Pacer To Deliver Against Australia

The captain Temba Bavuma announced the playing XI in the press conference and has expressed confidence in his team's chance to win the final. Bavuma, in his press conference, as quoted by India Today, also talked about Kagiso Rabada and his drug-ban saga. 

The South African skipper clearly mentioned that Rabada spoke to all of them in the team and answered all the questions from different members. Temba Bavuma stated that the episode is behind them now, and they are focused on winning the final against Australia.

"I mean, in the past couple of weeks, now that everything has unfolded, conversations have been had. He spoke to the team. He put himself on the spot, I guess, for further questioning from me or any of the players. "As far as we know, that's behind us now. We've really come here focused on what we need to do."

The Proteas skipper also stated that Kagiso Rabada is extra motivated to do well after the drug ban and is in the best shape of his career. Bavuma also felt that playing against Australia is an added motivation for his pacer and he is mentally in a very positive space.

"And I think he's in the best shape he's ever been in. So definitely motivated. We're playing against the Australians as well, so that'll be added motivation for him. But yeah, I think he's in a very good space."

Kagiso Rabada was found guilty of using cocaine and was banned for one month from cricket during the Indian Premier League 2025. He did play some games for Gujarat Titans after the ban but could not make an impression. Thus, the pacer would be looking to make a statement with a big performance in the WTC final.