In a significant revelation following South Africa’s historic World Test Championship (WTC) final win at Lord’s, Proteas captain Temba Bavuma disclosed that the Australian team resorted to psychological tactics during the match, labelling the South African players “chokers” during their second innings. This term, long associated with South Africa’s history of near-misses in high-stakes tournaments, was used by Australian players in an apparent attempt to unsettle their opponents.

“While we were batting, we could hear the Aussies using that dreaded word: choke,” Bavuma told reporters, underlining how the jibe echoed through the field during a tense phase of the game. However, rather than breaking their spirit, the comment appeared to galvanise the South Africans, who overcame both the pressure of the occasion and the taunts to secure their first WTC title.

Bavuma highlighted the importance of the win, not just in terms of sporting success but as a unifying force in a divided nation. He described the victory as an opportunity to revive the prestige of Test cricket in South Africa, especially at a time when no home Test matches are scheduled for the 2025–26 season.

Calling for more opportunities to play against top-tier nations, Bavuma stressed the need for South Africa to be seen as an attractive Test-playing side. He also drew inspiration from the country’s rugby team, the Springboks, whose recent triumphs have helped unite the nation. He noted that the cricket team is striving to achieve similar sustained success and national impact.

Bavuma, the first Black African specialist batter in South Africa’s Test history, praised past generations, especially the Graeme Smith-led side that dominated world cricket from 2013 to 2015. Looking ahead, he expressed a desire for his team to be judged over several years and to build a legacy defined by consistency and resilience.

Despite Australia's attempt to rattle the Proteas with pointed sledging, it was Bavuma’s side that had the final word — lifting the mace and rewriting South Africa’s Test legacy. (With inputs from Agencies)