Why Temba Bavuma turned away during Steve Smith's catch in second Test? South Africa captain explains viral reaction
toi
newspoint|23-10-2026
South Africa registered a historic win over Australia in the second Test at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Thursday. The Proteas declared their first innings at 425/9 before bowling Australia out for 99 and enforcing the follow-on. Australia fought to save the match in their second innings but were dismissed for 295, handing South Africa an innings and 31-run victory. The win helped Temba Bavuma and Co level the three-match Test series 1-1.
Bavuma was named Player of the Match for his career-best knock of 179, which helped South Africa build a big lead. The Proteas captain also gave fans and commentators a laugh with his reaction to a catch during Australia's second innings.
The incident took place in the 83rd over when Steve Smith attempted a big shot against Kagiso Rabada but managed only a thick top edge. The ball went high into the air, and Matthew Breetzke, positioned at mid-wicket, initially fumbled the catch before holding on to give South Africa a crucial breakthrough.
Replays later showed Bavuma turning his face towards the crowd as Breetzke tried to complete the catch, seemingly unable to watch the moment unfold. His reaction left the commentators laughing.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Bavuma explained that he had been nervous because of the windy conditions and understood how important Smith's wicket was for South Africa.
"I was very nervous at that time. High catches here at St George's can be tough, especially when the wind is blowing like that. I couldn't see who was under the catch. So, definitely it's not a case of me not having any faith in that individual," he said.
"It just felt like a big moment in the game. Steve Smith, what an important cog he is withing their batting lineup. I think I just kind of allowed my emotions to get better of me there," he added.
Bavuma's innings of 179 laid the foundation for a victory that had appeared unlikely after rain washed out the first two days. South Africa were also in trouble on the third morning after being asked to bat first.
Despite the win, Bavuma said the team would not get carried away, with the final Test scheduled to begin in five days.
"There's still a job at hand with another match still to go," he said.
Despite the win, Bavuma said the team would not get carried away, with the final Test scheduled to begin in five days.
"There's still a job at hand with another match still to go," he said.
Bavuma was named Player of the Match for his career-best knock of 179, which helped South Africa build a big lead. The Proteas captain also gave fans and commentators a laugh with his reaction to a catch during Australia's second innings.
The incident took place in the 83rd over when Steve Smith attempted a big shot against Kagiso Rabada but managed only a thick top edge. The ball went high into the air, and Matthew Breetzke, positioned at mid-wicket, initially fumbled the catch before holding on to give South Africa a crucial breakthrough.
Replays later showed Bavuma turning his face towards the crowd as Breetzke tried to complete the catch, seemingly unable to watch the moment unfold. His reaction left the commentators laughing.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Bavuma explained that he had been nervous because of the windy conditions and understood how important Smith's wicket was for South Africa.
"I was very nervous at that time. High catches here at St George's can be tough, especially when the wind is blowing like that. I couldn't see who was under the catch. So, definitely it's not a case of me not having any faith in that individual," he said.
"It just felt like a big moment in the game. Steve Smith, what an important cog he is withing their batting lineup. I think I just kind of allowed my emotions to get better of me there," he added.
Bavuma's innings of 179 laid the foundation for a victory that had appeared unlikely after rain washed out the first two days. South Africa were also in trouble on the third morning after being asked to bat first.
Despite the win, Bavuma said the team would not get carried away, with the final Test scheduled to begin in five days.
"There's still a job at hand with another match still to go," he said.
Despite the win, Bavuma said the team would not get carried away, with the final Test scheduled to begin in five days.
"There's still a job at hand with another match still to go," he said.
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