Temba Bavuma has become one of the most influential modern-day leaders in South African cricket. Known for his calm mindset, sharp tactical brain, and ability to guide his team under pressure, Bavuma has reshaped South Africa’s journey across formats.
From leading his side to World Test Championship glory to setting a new world record for most Test wins before first defeat, Bavuma’s captaincy career has been nothing short of exceptional.
Why Bavuma Captaincy Stands Out
- Strongest impact in Test cricket, with historic records.
- Solid and improving numbers in ODIs and T20Is.
- Guided South Africa to major series wins at home and away.
- Led SA to the WTC Final victory and a powerful comeback in the 2023–25 cycle.
Temba Bavuma Captaincy Record – All Formats (International)
| Format | Matches | Won | Lost | Draw | NR | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 12 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 91.67% |
| ODI | 49 | 26 | 22 | 0 | 1 | 54.17% |
| T20I | 25 | 15 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 62.50% |
| Total | 84 | 51 | 30 | 1 | 2 | 62.20% |
Temba Bavuma in Test Cricket
Temba Bavuma Test captaincy has been extraordinary. After taking charge in 2023, he delivered one of the greatest unbeaten starts in Test captaincy history.
- 12 Tests, 11 wins, 0 losses, 1 draw
- World Test Championship winners
- Most Test wins by any captain before their first defeat – 11 wins
- Won series vs West Indies, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Australia, and completed a historic series win in India
- Led SA to seven consecutive Test wins during the WTC cycle
Also see: Aiden Markram Captaincy Record in All Formats
Test Captaincy Record Table
| Matches | Won | Lost | Draw | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 91.67% |
His strong on-field decisions, effective use of bowlers, and consistency under pressure made him one of the best Test captains in modern cricket.
Temba Bavuma Captaincy Record in ODI Cricket
Bavuma has brought stability and fighting spirit to South Africa in ODIs. With 25 wins in 47 matches, he has maintained a healthy win percentage, guiding the side through tough series and global tournaments.
ODI Captaincy Overview
- 47 matches as captain
- 25 wins, 21 losses, 1 no result
- Win percentage: 54.35%
- Led SA to 2023 ODI World Cup semifinal
- Known for smart field placements and balanced approach
ODI Captaincy Record Table
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49 | 26 | 22 | 1 | 54.17% |
Temba Bavuma Captaincy Record in T20I Cricket
In T20Is, Bavuma has shown strong leadership by backing young talent and handling pressure situations smartly.
Key T20I Highlights
- 25 matches, 15 wins, 9 losses, 1 no result
- Win percentage: 62.50%
- Guided South Africa in multiple high-pressure series
- Known for calm decision-making in crunch moments
T20I Captaincy Record Table
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | 15 | 9 | 1 | 62.50% |
Domestic T20 Captaincy (CSA & MSL)
| Tournament | Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSA T20 Challenge | 17 | 13 | 3 | 1 | 76.47% |
| Mzansi Super League | 7 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 0.00% |
He has excelled in CSA T20 cricket, though had a tough MSL season.
Major Achievements as Captain
- World Test Championship Winner
- Most Test wins before first defeat – world record (11 wins)
- Historic Test series win in India
- Led SA to World Cup semifinals (2023 ODI WC)
- Seven-Test winning streak during WTC cycle
- One of the most successful Test captains in SA history
- Balanced leadership across all three formats
- Significant improvement in team consistency and discipline
Temba Bavuma’s captaincy journey has been remarkable. With a near-perfect Test record, solid ODI performances, and strong T20I leadership, he has become one of South Africa’s most successful modern captains.
His calm approach, tactical maturity, and ability to guide the team through pressure situations have shaped South Africa’s new era across formats. With WTC success already in his resume and world records to his name, Bavuma’s leadership continues to grow—and so does his impact on South African cricket.
