Proteas captain Temba Bavuma says he is under less pressure than usual to continue his latest form in the three-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting in East London on Thursday evening (1pm kick-off).
In the recent ODI series against England in late January and early February, Bavuma was in good form to hit two scores in the mid-30s and then a sparkling century, which helped the team clinch a 2-1 series win over the visitors.
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In his first series as Test captain, Bavuma stumbled in the opening match against the West Indies this month, getting out for a stunning pair of ducks, but he bounced back emphatically in the second Test with a man-of-the-match performance. which saw him stroke to a career best of 172.
Asked if he was under pressure to continue his recent form at the pre-match press conference ahead of the first ODI against the Windies on Thursday, Bavuma claimed it was business as usual.
“I don’t see it that way. I think as a player, we always want to keep riding that form. But with cricket there are many factors that you cannot control,” explained Bavuma.
“So I’m not going to approach (this series) any differently. I don’t believe there’s any pressure to score big. This (pressure) is no different than it is now.
“I have a role in the team, obviously to lead the guys, and then I also have a role with the bat to score as much as possible, just like any other player in the team. So I don’t think it’s big or exaggerated on my part. It’s the same as always, the same as always.
Slow condition
Looking at the conditions expected of the Proteas in East London, where the team rarely plays, Bavuma said he has consulted with coaches and players in the area about what to expect.
“We can’t play cricket in East London. I think the last time I played here was in the T20 against England in 2020,” Bavuma said.
“In terms of the situation, we have tried to talk to a lot of people, like coaches and local players in the area and they all expressed the same sentiment that the wickets are generally on the slow side.
“Especially this wicket looks like that. Whether it’s a turn or not is a bit difficult to say. It’s one-day cricket so wickets don’t get damaged too much. So we’ve tried to prepare as much as possible.
Bavuma continued: “As batters and bowlers, we have tried to make adjustments, spend time at the nets and practice as much as we can. But the most important thing is how we evaluate things on the field and make any necessary adjustments.
“We’re happy to be back in East London. The support is always good and there’s a good atmosphere here. So we’re going to make the most of it.”