Temba Bavuma becomes Greatest Test Captain of All Time, destroys century-old record

Temba Bavuma etched his name into the record books by leading South Africa to their first major ICC title in 27 years with a win over Australia in the World Test Championship Final. Bavuma became the first Proteas captain to secure the WTC trophy and also achieved a feat that no one had done before.

South Africa clinched a five-wicket win over Australia at Lord’s. They chased down 282 runs with a century from Aiden Markram and 66 runs from Bavuma. The South Africa skipper led the team from the front by batting despite a hamstring strain and visible discomfort throughout the second innings.

Temba Bavuma Becomes Most Successful Test Captain in First 10 Matches

Temba Bavuma has made history by becoming the most successful Test captain in his first 10 matches, securing 9 wins and 1 draw without a single defeat. Bavuma surpassed a 100-year-old record held by England’s Percy Chapman, who had nine wins but one loss after taking charge in 1926.

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Bavuma’s leadership not only silenced his critics but also guided South Africa to a long-awaited ICC title. It is worth mentioning that the Proteas topped the table in the WTC 2023–25 standings.

Temba Bavuma Surpasses Ricky Ponting’s Record as Test Captain

Temba Bavuma also surpassed Ricky Ponting, who led a star-studded Australian team to eight wins, a draw, and a loss in his first 10 games. Bavuma took over the captaincy of the South African side that was still rebuilding in late 2023, and he managed to mould it into a title-winning unit.

Among Indian greats, Virat Kohli had six wins, three draws, and one loss, while MS Dhoni remained unbeaten with five wins and five draws in his initial 10 matches.

South Africa reached the World Test Championship final for the first time and made the most of the opportunity by winning the title in their debut appearance. They also ended Australia's unbeaten streak in ICC men's finals since 2010.

Temba Bavuma’s Crucial Batting Contributions in South Africa’s 2025 WTC Final Victory

Temba Bavuma not only led South Africa to their maiden World Test Championship title as captain but also played a pivotal role with the bat in the final against Australia. Bavuma scored 36 off 84 balls as the Proteas were dismissed for just 138 in response to Australia's first-innings total of 212.

Chasing 282 in the fourth innings after bowling Australia out for 207, South Africa found themselves in early trouble with two quick wickets down. Bavuma then partnered with Aiden Markram to put together a 147-run stand that shifted momentum.

While Markram scored a superb century (136), Bavuma played a key supporting role. The duo’s partnership laid the foundation for a five-wicket win on Day 4, sealing a memorable WTC title for South Africa.

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