ODI World Cup 2023: Temba Bavuma excited to play at 'idol' Sachin Tendulkar's homeground

South Africa captain, Temba Bavuma, opened up about his excitement to play at his idol Sachin Tendulkar's homeground, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The Proteas will lock horns against defending champions England in Mumbai on October 21.

Bavuma stated that he had always heard about the iconic stadium and to get that opportunity to play at the venue is another tick off his list in his cricketing career.

"Yeah, I think for me, growing up, idolizing a guy like Sachin Tendulkar, Wankhede was a stadium you always heard about. So, to have that opportunity to be playing, that's another tick off my list as a cricketer,” Bavuma said at the pre-match press conference.

The right-handed batter further stated that he is hoping that his side can put their best foot forward against Jos Buttler and co. In addition, the skipper did not have the best of starts as he has scored only 59 runs in three matches so far this tournament.

"The guys that have played here, JP Duminy, Quinton, they've spoken about how it can be a batter’s paradise. You get value for your shots and the ball seems to travel further.

“So, I think as batters it can build a lot of confidence. And if it is your day, you can fill your boots. And I guess just the atmosphere of it all, it being a full ground, it can really be something to enjoy. I think our real assessment will happen on the day. We'll see what's happening there, and then try to put our best foot forward,” the 33-year-old added.

South Africa are coming off after a shocking 38-run defeat against the Netherlands in their previous game in Dharamsala. Notably, they have made a terrific start to the campaign, having outplayed Sri Lanka and Australia, respectively. England, on the other hand, also suffered a loss against underdogs Afghanistan in Delhi.