‘With the bat or the ball’ – Temba Bavuma makes hilarious query to broadcaster after massive loss to India

South Africa's captain, Temba Bavuma, injected humor into the post-match presentation when asked if the powerplay was their downfall. With a quick, witty retort, Bavuma quipped that it was indeed Rohit's explosive opening and the formidable partnership of Iyer and Kohli that wrested control from them. He went on to elaborate on how these factors contributed to their defeat. Facing a daunting 326-run target set by India, South Africa struggled against the formidable duo of Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja. 

Jadeja's exceptional five-wicket haul helped India bundle out South Africa for a mere 83 runs as the hosts secured a resounding 243-run victory in Kolkata. Despite a slow and challenging pitch, Rohit defied expectations, crafting a remarkable 24-ball 40 and propelling India to the 90s in just 10 overs. Bavuma's response to this feat was filled with humor, adding a lighter touch to the situation.

Presenter: Was it the first 10 overs that hurt you the most?

Temba Bavuma: With the bat or the ball?

Presenter: With the ball.

“The first ten overs with the ball made it a challenge. They got 90 in the first 10 overs. We did well after that. Curbed down the run-rate. Biggest challenge was taking wickets and India built big stands. Sharma kind of set it up. Kohli and Iyer had a good partnership. The conditions are the biggest learning. Wicket played as we suspected it to play - expected it to deteriorate but we didn't adapt well,” said Bavuma.

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India thwart South Africa to carry on their winning juggernaut

Choosing to bat on a challenging Kolkata pitch, skipper Rohit initiated proceedings with a blistering start. However, the visitors fought back, claiming two quick wickets. Virat Kohli then forged a crucial third-wicket partnership with Shreyas Iyer, enabling India to set a formidable target of 327 runs.

In the process, Kohli equaled Sachin Tendulkar's ODI century record with his unbeaten 49th century, while Iyer contributed with a solid 77 off 87 balls. Facing India's bowling prowess, South Africa crumbled, particularly against Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja. Meanwhile, South Africa still has a crucial league-stage match against Afghanistan in Ahmedabad on November 10 before they determine their semifinal opponent.