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‘We have a strong desire to get the better of them’ - Temba Bavuma on Australia

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has set the tone for the upcoming Test series against Australia, framing the clash as a defining challenge in the World Test Championship cycle. The Proteas, who recently defeated India in India, are aiming to build momentum ahead of their summer schedule, which includes hosting Australia before facing England.

Bavuma highlighted the historic rivalry, noting that South Africa and Australia have split their last nine Test series evenly over the past two decades, with the 2011-12 series ending in a draw. Despite Australia’s long-standing dominance, Bavuma emphasized South Africa’s growing confidence, pointing to their 2025 WTC final victory—a match where they overcame a 74-run deficit to chase down a target at Lord’s.

The series will feature intense battles between bowling and batting units, with Bavuma stressing the importance of pace, including the return of Anrich Nortje and Gerald Coetzee to bolster South Africa’s fast-bowling attack. Nortje’s comeback after over three years away adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Proteas’ preparations for the slower coastal venues hosting the series.

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