South Africa captain Temba Bavuma took a nostalgic detour ahead of the second ODI in Raipur, remembering how he first watched Rohit Sharma during the inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup — while he was still in school.
Speaking about India’s senior duo, Bavuma said facing stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has become familiar over the years. “These guys have been around, so there is nothing new. These are world-class players,” he told PTI.
Bavuma added that the Proteas have experienced both highs and lows against India’s star batters, making the ongoing ODI series even more compelling.
South Africa enter Raipur needing a win to level the three-match series after India’s hard-fought 17-run victory in Ranchi. Rohit and Kohli powered that win with a 139-run stand, before India’s bowlers sealed the contest in the final over.
Bavuma acknowledged the tremendous value Kohli and Rohit bring to India: “Their inclusion bolsters the team. They have a lot of experience and skill, and that can only benefit India.”
The Proteas now face the tough task of containing the two heavyweights as they try to bounce back in the ODI leg following a disappointing Test series.