Latest news with #TembaBavuma
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
ECB pip BCCI; WTC final to stay in England till 2031
South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma holds the winner's trophy and celebrates with teammates after their win in the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's cricket ground in London, Saturday, June 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth) Mumbai: In a blow to the BCCI 's aspirations of holding the 'Ultimate Test,' the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday confirmed that England will host the finals of the next three editions of the World Test Championship in 2027, 2029 and 2031. The ICC made the decision at its Annual Conference in Singapore this weekend. Right since the inaugural edition of World Test Championship in 201921, England have been the sole hosts. Southampton hosted the first WTC final between India and New Zealand in 2021, while India and Australia contested the second WTC final at The Oval in London in 2023. In 2025, the 'Home of Cricket' Lord's Cricket ground hosted the third WTC final, between Australia and South Africa. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! 'The Board also confirmed the awarding of hosting rights for the ICC World Test Championship Finals for the 2027, 2029, and 2031 editions to the England and Wales Cricket Board, following a successful track record in hosting recent finals,' the ICC said in a media statement on Sunday. According to reliable sources, the BCCI was highly interested in bringing the event to its shores, but that possibility has been dealt a blow for the next six years. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo India camp hit by more injuries, Playing XI TENSION before Manchester Test vs England Boost for Afghanistan women's team In another significant development, the ICC has decided that the Afghanistan's displaced women's cricket team, whose most members are currently residing in Australia, will be involved in some way in the next two women's World Cups—the 2025 ODI World Cup in India and the 2026 T20 World Cup in England next June. The qualification process for the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup is already complete. At the moment, there's no clarity in which way Afghanistan's women's team will be involved. Notably, the initiative to help Afghanistan's women cricketers find their feet again is being led by the BCCI, England & Wales Cricket Board and Cricket Australia—the three most powerful boards in world cricket, with ICC deputy chairman Imran Khwaja supervising it. USA Cricket put on notice The ICC has also given a three-month notice to USA Cricket to set its house in order, failing which the global governing body of the game will take action against it. 'The ICC reiterated its previous position and confirmed that the organisation remains on notice. USA Cricket is required to undertake comprehensive governance reforms, including but not limited to completing free and fair elections within a three-month period,' stated the ICC. In other developments, the Timor Leste Cricket Federation and the Zambia Cricket Union have been granted Associate Member status. Three new officials from Associate nations have been elected to the ICC Chief Executives Committee Gurumurthy Palani from France, Anuraag Bhatnagar from Cricket Hong Kong and Gurdeep Klair from Cricket Canada. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Forbes
6 days ago
- Sport
- Forbes
How Themba Bavuma Is Making A Difference Beyond The Boundary Line
LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 14: Temba Bavuma of South Africa celebrates with the ICC World Test ... More Championship Mace following his team's victory on Day Four of the ICC World Test Championship Final between South Africa and Australia at Lord's Cricket Ground on June 14, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images) When Temba Bavuma lifted the ICC T20 World Cup trophy this year, the moment carried a meaning far beyond cricket. For South Africa, it ended a 26-year wait for an ICC title, igniting celebrations across a nation with a complicated sporting history. But for Bavuma, it was a reminder of something even greater. As South Africa's first Black African cricket captain, Bavuma has always carried more than just the hopes of his teammates. He holds the dreams of communities who see themselves reflected in his journey, many for the first time. 'It's a responsibility I carry with pride,' he says. 'Being the first Black African captain in a sport with such a complex history means I'm constantly aware of the space I occupy.' This sense of responsibility goes beyond leading his team on the field; it's reflected in his partnership with DKMS Africa, where he works to raise awareness about blood cancers and the urgent need for stem cell donors in underrepresented communities. 'Partnering with DKMS Africa aligns with that responsibility,' he shared in an interview with 'It's about showing up for our communities in meaningful ways, especially in spaces where we are underrepresented, like healthcare.' For Bavuma, lifting trophies is just one part of his purpose. 'Winning the ICC trophy was a proud moment for the team and the country,' he reflects. 'But more than anything, it reminded me of the platform we have as athletes.' For him, that platform isn't just about records or silverware. The real victory lies in using these moments to uplift others and champion life beyond the pitch, from breaking barriers in cricket to raising awareness about life-saving stem cell donations, creating a legacy defined not only by runs scored or titles won, but by hope restored and lives changed. A Leader Beyond Cricket Bavuma partnered with DKMS Africa to raise awareness about blood cancers and blood disorders. The partnership emerged from his growing awareness of the urgent need for stem cell donors in South Africa, particularly among Black, Coloured, and Asian communities. Temba Bavuma and The DP World Lions have collaborated with DKMS Africa to Tackle Blood Cancer and ... More Disorders Learning about the issue was eye-opening for Bavuma. 'The stats were hard to ignore,' he says. 'Learning how difficult it is for patients in our communities to find matches, it really hit home. It's not because people don't care, but because there's a lack of awareness. That moved me to want to help change that.' In South Africa, only about 0.36% of the population is registered as stem cell donors, and Black patients face disproportionately low chances of finding a match. For many, a transplant is their only hope for survival. The disparity is not unique to South Africa – it reflects global underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in donor registries, rooted in historical inequities and access barriers. Bavuma sees parallels between his experiences in cricket and those faced by patients in healthcare. 'In both spaces, underrepresentation is rooted in history and systemic issues. Whether it's in sport or healthcare, the barriers are real, but so is the potential to overcome them. Just as we've pushed for transformation in cricket, we need to push for equity in health outcomes. It starts with awareness and access.' Grounding Advocacy in Personal Encounters Iminathi and Temba Bavuma During A Tour Of The DP World Stadium His commitment to the campaign became deeply personal when he met Iminathi, a young boy whose story transformed the cause from abstract statistics into a powerful reality. Like Bavuma, Iminathi has hopes and dreams, yet he faces the harsh reality of waiting for a stem cell donor, a fight that steals away the carefree innocence of childhood. 'Meeting Iminathi was incredibly emotional,' Bavuma shares. 'When you put a face to the issue, it changes everything. He is just a child with dreams like any of us have. That moment made the campaign real for me. It's not about stats, it's about lives. Lives we can help save.' This sense of responsibility inspired Bavuma to deepen his partnership with DKMS Africa by involving the DP World Lions. 'It felt like a natural next step,' he explains. 'The Lions have always stood for something bigger than cricket: community, resilience, and unity. Partnering with DKMS Africa through the team means we can amplify the message, reach more people, and encourage more donor registrations. It's about moving from awareness to action, and I'm proud to have the Lions behind this cause.' Jono Wright (CEO of Lions Cricket). Iminathi and Temba Bavuma Reflecting on the impact he hopes to achieve, Bavuma emphasises the power of personal stories to inspire change. 'I hope we inspire people to register as stem cell donors and realise the life-saving difference they can make. Iminathi's story is more than emotional; it's a call to action. If even one person signs up after hearing it, that could mean hope for a family, and that's everything." Reflecting on the bigger picture, Bavuma adds, 'Long term, I want to see greater representation on the donor registry, especially from African communities. Having lost a loved one to a similar condition, I understand just how vital that hope is.' For Bavuma, leading by example is fundamental. 'It's one thing to lend your name to a campaign, but it's another to show up, speak up, and get involved. If I want others to take action, I have to do the same. That's how trust is built.' The Power of Sport to Drive Change Temba Bavuma Sharing His Personal Story Behind His Choice To Partner With DKMS Africa As national captain, Bavuma's influence stretches far beyond cricket circles. In a country still grappling with economic inequality, health disparities, and social divides, sport has always been a powerful unifier. 'Sport has the ability to unify, to educate, and to inspire action,' he says. 'As athletes, we're in a unique position to amplify messages that matter. Whether it's health, education, or social justice, we can be part of the solution, if we choose to be.' For many young South Africans, Bavuma's rise is a testament to possibility. His grounded demeanour and thoughtful approach to leadership have earned him respect not only among teammates but among sports fans and broader society. 'Growing up, I just wanted to play cricket,' he reflects. 'I never imagined my career could intersect with something so impactful. Being able to help save lives through this work is potentially humbling. It gives my journey even more purpose.' Legacy Beyond Records JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - JUNE 18: Temba Bavuma interacts with supporters during the South Africa ... More men's national cricket team arrival at OR Tambo International Airport on June 18, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. South Africa were crowned ICC World Test Champions after defeating Australia by five wickets in the final at Lord's In London on June 14th..(Photo by Alet Pretorius/Gallo Images via Getty Images) The Proteas' World Cup win under Bavuma's captaincy is already being celebrated as one of South African sport's greatest moments. Yet, for him, its meaning goes far beyond silverware. 'Moments like that remind me of the platform we have,' he says with calm certainty. 'We have the ability to bring attention to causes that matter.' When asked what message he would like to send to South Africans about stem cell donor registration, his response is simple but powerful: 'You could be the match someone is praying for. Registering takes just a moment, but it could give someone the rest of their life. We all have the power to help; it starts with stepping forward.' Throughout his journey, Bavuma has remained mindful of the wider impact of his leadership. His milestones: becoming the first Black African captain, leading the Proteas to an ICC trophy after decades of heartbreak, and advocating for health equity, all stem from a quiet conviction that leadership must mean more than titles. 'I'd like to be remembered as someone who stood for something greater than himself,' he reflects. 'Yes, as a cricketer, but also as a leader who used his voice and platform to uplift others. If my journey has opened doors or inspired action, then I've done what I was meant to do.' A Call to Action As South Africa celebrates a sporting hero, Bavuma's message is clear: victories on the field are fleeting without victories for humanity. His advocacy serves as a reminder that the real trophies are the lives changed, opportunities created, and systems transformed along the way. In a country where stories of hope are often met with scepticism, Bavuma's journey offers a powerful counter-narrative: that quiet, deliberate leadership can drive change; that representation matters not just for pride, but for the health and dignity of communities; and that the true measure of a champion is not only in records broken, but in lives touched. Bavuma's journey reminds us that leadership doesn't always have to be loud or flashy; it can be deliberate, intentional, and deeply impactful. Every single South African has the power to make a difference, whether through small actions or bold gestures, and together, those efforts can transform lives and communities.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Shukri Conrad and Pat Moroney's alliance: The Proteas' new Government of Cricket Unity
Proteas coach Shukri Conrad, captain Temba Bavuma and Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie with the ICC Test mace. Picture: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" That's certainly how I felt about the Proteas Men's team. Head coach Shukri Conrad has been responsible for all selections since his appointment and the ICC World Test mace perched splendidly in Cricket SA's trophy cabinet at their Illovo office is the result. Conrad's coaching philosophy has fostered an environment where honesty and open communication thrive. Players are able to express themselves with clarity regarding their roles being a cornerstone of the team's culture. Unlike in previous years, where players were often left in the dark following squad announcements, the current setup allows individuals to gauge their standing within the team's future without the fear of unpleasant surprises. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ This is a refreshing change that strengthens the collective resolve of the squad moving forward. So, why then appoint a Convenor of Selectors? This is not a slight on Pat Moroney, the incoming COS, who boasts all the experience of having worked within CSA's structures since 2001, but yet one cannot help but wonder about the necessity of such a position given the harmony achieved under Conrad's direct oversight. The only explanation I can fathom is Conrad's increased workload now that he has been appointed all-format coach. As solely Test coach, Conrad had the time to attend domestic matches and even coach South Africa 'A' on various occasions to formulate that unique rapport with the players. I vividly recall Conrad spending time at Western Province Cricket Club closely monitoring the likes of Corbin Bosch and Codi Yusuf whilst playing for South Africa 'A' against their England counterparts last year. Both seamers have since progressed to make their Proteas Test debuts with aplomb. However, with Conrad now set to spend extensive periods travelling internationally, the need for an extra set of eyes roving domestically may be required. When asked his thoughts on having to 'deal with' a prospective incoming COS back in May, Conrad stated: 'I don't think the words 'dealing with a convenor' is the right narrative we want to project. Hopefully it will be a like-minded person who has South African cricket and, more importantly, the Proteas as first prize all the time.' But he also went further: 'The last thing you want is for someone to come in with a completely different agenda. 'It's important for players to know exactly where they stand, who's accountable, who's the sole voice who takes responsibility, because I don't like collective responsibility. 'Cricket has never been a democracy. Whoever the fall guy is, he takes the rap.' It is fortunate then that this new Government of Cricket Unity formed between Conrad and Moroney has travelled a long road previously. Moroney was the SA U19 COS when Conrad was head coach of the Junior Proteas a few years back. It was this combination that provided the platform for Dewald Brevis to take centre stage at the ICC U19 World Cup in the Caribbean in 2022. Equally, Moroney and Conrad sung from the same hymn sheet when they picked an unknown 16-year-old by the name of Kwena Maphaka for that self-same ICC U19 World Cup, which paved the way for the left-arm seamer to explode two years later at the next edition on South African soil. Moroney's in-depth knowledge of fellow teenager Lhuan-dre Pretorius's journey will also help Conrad manage the precocious talent moving forward. Cricket may not be a Democracy, but perhaps there is a place for Epistocracy - where some are better equipped to make decisions than others due to their knowledge, understanding, or competence - within the Proteas Men's team.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
The tale of two Tests: Why it's time for a two-tier system in cricket
The Proteas, captained by Temba Bavuma, recently won the World Test Championship at Lord's after beating Australia in the final. Photo: AFP Image: AFP COMMENT In the one corner, there was Lord's. Splendid in all its regality. A full house on the fifth day enjoying a spectacle rivalled only by events at the very same ground just a few weeks earlier, when the Proteas lifted the Test mace in spectacular fashion. All three results were still possible, with both England and India teetering on the edge. The tension was palpable — sledging, swearing, and high-stakes cricket captivating a global audience. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Over 7 500km away, in far-off Jamaica, two other teams were slogging through the motions at a near-deserted Sabina Park. Not too long ago, the Frank Worrell Trophy — contested by the West Indies and Australia — was one of the most sought-after titles in world cricket. Thousands would cram into the George Headley Stand, with the picturesque Blue Mountains providing the idyllic Caribbean backdrop. But in 2025, the eminence of both the FWT — dominated by Australia for over two decades — and the West Indies themselves has dimmed alarmingly. Yet, not even the Windies' most disillusioned critic could have foreseen the looming nadir of this once-proud cricketing nation. The absolute carnage that unfolded in 14.3 overs of mayhem was painful to watch. The West Indies slumped to 11 for 6 in just 5.2 overs, before collapsing entirely for a pitiful 27 all out. Not since 1955 has a lower score been recorded in the history of Test cricket. The embarrassment was compounded by the occasion: the 50th anniversary of the West Indies' triumph in the inaugural Cricket World Cup — a tournament won by legends such as Sir Viv Richards, Sir Clive Lloyd, Michael Holding, and Andy Roberts. That very generation watched, helplessly, as the current crop — masquerading as Test cricketers — capitulated. Former captain Carl Hooper echoed the anger of a region, describing himself as 'angry' and 'upset'. He went further: 'It's not as if you can see some light at the end of the tunnel.' Which brings me to my point — one echoed recently by Ravi Shastri — that Test cricket must implement a two-tier system. Test cricket simply cannot afford to carry nations like the West Indies any longer. As heartbreaking as it may be for the likes of Lloyd to witness his beloved team demoted, there is no other viable path forward. The same logic applies to Zimbabwe. The Proteas' recent demolition of their northern neighbours across two Tests did little to enhance the prestige or appeal of the longest format. Wiaan Mulder's refusal to pursue a world-record individual score — choosing instead to let a 'legend' keep the title — speaks volumes. Had his unbeaten 367 come against one of the so-called "Big Three", there's little doubt he would have pushed for history. In today's cricket landscape, where the calendar is hopelessly congested, there simply isn't room for one-sided Test series that sap the sport's energy and public interest. Recent series between evenly matched sides — South Africa v India, England v Australia, Pakistan v New Zealand — have delivered riveting cricket, packed stadiums, and huge digital engagement. That is the standard fans crave. Difficult decisions need to be made — and soon. Test cricket remains the sport's purest form, its absolute pinnacle. But to preserve it, the game must prioritise quality over sentiment. The best teams must play each other regularly, free from the drag of nostalgia and the dead weight of decayed dynasties.
Int'l Cricket Council
14-07-2025
- Sport
- Int'l Cricket Council
Historic WTC25 Final display seals Player of the Month award
Aiden Markram's pivotal all-round performance in the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia at Lord's has earned him the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for June 2025. The 30-year-old made 136 runs and claimed two important wickets to help the Proteas break their 27-year wait for a senior ICC trophy. The South African opener delivered when it mattered most, scripting one of the finest performances in the history of the competition to guide his side to their maiden World Test Championship triumph. "It is a privilege to receive this award. To contribute to a ICC World Test Championship win for our team and South Africa is something that means a lot to me," Markram said upon winning the award. 'Winning the final at Lord's is a historic moment for South African cricket, and it is something we will all remember forever. This victory was only possible due to the combined efforts of the entire team, with crucial contributions from KG (Kagiso Rabada) and Tembs (Temba Bavuma)." Markram's impact began with the ball, when he was called upon to break a growing Australian partnership between Steve Smith and Beau Webster. He responded instantly, removing Smith with just his sixth delivery, setting the tone for what would become a match to remember. His first outing with the bat didn't go as planned with the right-hander being dismissed without scoring by Mitchell Starc. But it was in the second innings that Markram truly came into his own. With South Africa trailing by 74 runs and Australia adding a valuable 59-run 10th wicket stand, the pressure was firmly on. Markram stepped up, taking the final wicket of Hazlewood before turning the tide with the bat. Chasing a daunting target of 282, he anchored the innings with poise and determination. Despite the early loss of Ryan Rickelton, Markram forged vital partnerships with Wiaan Mulder and captain Temba Bavuma. When Bavuma suffered an injury scare and doubted his ability to continue, Markram's reassurance in the dressing room spurred a gritty partnership with his captain that took South Africa to the brink of glory. Markram eventually fell for a masterful 136, in an innings filled with composure, grit, and shot-making of the highest order. His knock didn't just win a final, it etched his name into history in a long-awaited triumph. Men's Player Of The MonthNewsAiden Markram
