Bavuma trends despite not playing in Proteas pink day ODI defeat
“Why are they losing right now? because Temba Bavuma is not playing,” fans react to Proteas ODI loss to India.
Proteas captain Temba Bavuma was trending on Sunday afternoon despite not featuring in the team’s eight wicket defeat to India in the first One Day International.
Bavuma was rested for the T20I and ODI series with Aiden Markram taking over as captain.
ALSO READ: Gibbs says Reeza Hendricks must play after “politics” kept him out
The 33-year-old faced criticism and abuse from fans after he had a disastrous World Cup campaign which saw the Proteas eliminated in the semi-finals.
Bavuma rested for India ODI series
ALSO READ: Cricket World Cup: Proteas eliminated by Australia
Having rested for the white ball format, Reeza Hendricks, who was kept out of the team for underperforming Bavuma at the World Cup, was given a chance to cement his place in the team but has struggled to make a huge impact.
On Sunday, the Proteas won the toss and elected to bat but quickly found themselves 52/6 and were eventually bowled out for 116 after fighting 33 from Andile Phehlukwayo.
ALSO READ: BREAKING: Bavuma selected to play in semis, wins the toss
India cruised to a win, losing only two wickets and during their run chase, Bavuma’s name started trending on X.
@ovshake42 wrote: “I remember how Bavuma was blamed for South Africa’s performance.”
@vaichal_varad wrote: “Temba Bavuma ‘s tactics were quite impressive. Still remember how they outclassed Australia in the league stage match. Folks, we are often forgetting that a Coach is also responsible for the team’s defeat apart from the skipper Nevertheless, South Africa will bounce back….”