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"Not Our Tag To Carry": Temba Bavuma Hits Back at Critics Over 'Chokers' Image

Abhinav Tyagi

Temba Bavuma - (Source : @Johns/X.com)Temba Bavuma - (Source : @Johns/X.com)

Temba Bavuma has entered the history books as the captain who helped South Africa end their ICC trophy drought. The Proteas defeated Australia by five wickets to win a major trophy after 27 years.

Temba and his team were underestimated before the final, but the Rainbow Nation stunned the mighty Australians and also put an end to the ‘chokers’ tag that has haunted them for decades.

Bavuma Breaks Silence On 'Chokers' Tag

South Africa have a long history of excelling in ICC events, reaching the knockout stages only to falter at the final hurdle. However, this time, the pressure did not get the better of them, and it was a different Proteas side on display.

In a recent press conference, Temba Bavuma spoke at length about the ‘chokers’ label and asserted that it was never theirs to carry.

“As much as the Aussies were saying we were chokers in the field, we never made it our thing. We just said we’ve got to keep going and be relentless, and the harder we knock, the doors will open. Chokers was not our tag to carry—we never spoke about it, although you always feel a responsibility when you wear the badge,” said Bavuma at the Cricket South Africa headquarters.

Temba’s powerful message has been praised by cricket critics, who note that the current squad has not played enough finals or been in this position long enough to deserve the chokers tag.

It is worth noting that, as Bavuma mentioned, Australian players tried to unsettle the Markram-Bavuma partnership by taunting them with ‘choker’ references. However, the South African pair remained unfazed and built a crucial 147-run stand for the third wicket (note: the article previously mentioned a "250+ runs stand," but the official partnership was 147 runs).

Bavuma and His Men Gets Hero Welcome at Airport

The Proteas were welcomed as heroes upon their arrival in South Africa, with thousands of fans turning up at the airport to see their stars bring the trophy home.

“It was quite overwhelming, and I have not seen such a lot of people at the airport before,” said an emotionally charged Bavuma.

Also, the Rainbow Nation will have a proper celebration on June 19 with fans turning up to watch their favourite stars.