‘Bavuma an inspiration to black cricketers’

Brandon Moyo

Zimpapers Sports Hub

SOUTH Africa captain Temba Bavuma may be ruled out of the Zimbabwe test through injury, but his recent performance for the Proteas has inspired many, an official has said.

Bavuma was the leading light when SA made history last week by winning their first ICC trophy in 27 years following a five-wicket victory over Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, England.

Not only did he become the first skipper to win a trophy for the Proteas, but he also silenced his critics that had been on his case throughout his career.

Bavuma had been called all sorts of names, many calling for his removal from the team, but against the odds, he stood firm to take South Africa to the Promised Land.

Cricket administrator Vumi Moyo, who is the chairman for the Local Organising Committee for the forthcoming series, was full of praise for the 35-year-old Proteas skipper.

Moyo, who described injured Bavuma as a beacon of hope, said they are looking forward to hosting the Proteas.

“It is exciting to have South Africa here. They are our neighbours, we have a lot of ties with them. When you see people like Temba Bavuma, who have come from underprivileged backgrounds that we can identify with, going all the way to the top is heartwarming,” said Moyo.

“We all know what abuse he has gone through and a lot of our players have also faced the same challenges, but he has shown that you can stand up and be a shining beacon.

“He is an inspiration to lots of underprivileged black cricketers that it’s possible — anything can be done in this sport,” he said.

Moyo said all is in place for the Test and called on fans to come out in numbers for what promises to be an exhilarating series.

“We just hope that the public comes out in numbers. South Africa have just won the World Test Championship and we have Blessing Muzarabani who just won the IPL so it’s going to be an interesting series. To all sport-loving people, come out in numbers and witness champions play in an excellent venue,” said Moyo.

South Africa are expected to arrive in Zimbabwe tomorrow and adding to the excitement, the first 50 fans at the ground will gain free entry.