South Africa’s Test captain Temba Bavuma has established himself as one of the most successful leaders in world cricket, winning 11 of his first 12 Tests in charge and drawing the other. His unbeaten run includes a historic 2–0 series victory in India and the 2025 World Test Championship title — achievements that have drawn high praise from former captain AB de Villiers.
Speaking on R Ashwin’s YouTube show, de Villiers admitted that Bavuma’s impact as skipper has exceeded even his own expectations. He said he was initially unsure whether Bavuma was the right choice when he was appointed in 2023.
“For the first few years after he was named captain, I was hesitant to say I was confident about the call. Maybe it comes back to the old phrase: you can’t judge a book by its cover,” he said, as quoted by India Today.
De Villiers explained that Bavuma does not fit the traditional image of an imposing or dominant leader, yet has demonstrated that such traits are not essential for success.
“He doesn’t look like this big Graeme Smith with the aura and intimidating presence,” he said. “Temba is a small, soft-spoken guy; he hardly ever raises his voice. It shows you that different styles of captaincy can be successful.”
Drawing a comparison with MS Dhoni, de Villiers highlighted how calm, understated leadership can be just as effective as more forceful authority. “I think it was similar with MS Dhoni back in the day. I hardly ever heard his voice. He was calm, didn’t speak much, but when he did, people listened.”
De Villiers said Bavuma’s continued success has taken him by surprise, particularly given how difficult it can be to lead South Africa during periods of transition.
“It’s absolutely incredible,” he said. “He has taken me aback with the success he has achieved.”
Bavuma’s composed style and sharp tactical awareness were central to South Africa’s recent triumph in India — their first Test series win there in 25 years — secured with a record 408-run victory in Guwahati.
