World Cup: Temba Bavuma wants South Africa bowlers to cut down on extras after shocking loss to Netherlands

South Africa’s shocking 38-run loss to the Netherlands in the World Cup group match prompted captain Temba Bavuma to urge his team to introspect and cut down on unnecessary extras as a bowling unit. Notably, the South African bowlers conceded a total of 32 extra runs, detracting from what had begun as a promising performance.

Reflecting on the match, Bavuma cited missed opportunities, particularly regarding their failure to limit the Netherlands to a lower score. Despite their confidence, South Africa’s batting collapse, a lack of substantial partnerships, and the extras given away played a significant part in the defeat.

Having been put to bat in challenging, rain-hampered conditions, the Netherlands were precariously positioned at 140 for 7 before captain Scott Edwards led an impressive recovery, securing an unbeaten 78 off 69 balls. This propelled the Netherlands to a solid 245 for 8, opening up the contest. However, the prestigious South African side wilted under pressure, collapsing for 207 in 42.5 overs, marking the Netherlands’ maiden World Cup win against a major Test-playing nation.

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“I think we got them to 112/6, we should have restricted them below 200. But while batting, we were confident of chasing down the total. But we didn’t get any partnerships. Credit to them for bowling well. We were clinical against Australia. But the challenge is always to come back and replicate the same performance. Bowling 32 extras is not good. It should have been controlled and that will be spoken about,” Temba Bavuma said in the post-match presentation ceremony.

Bavuma also highlighted subpar fielding that distinctly contrasted their prior performance against Australia. He stressed the importance of the team using this time to reflect on their performance and allowing the disappointment of this loss to influence their determination in future matches.

“Fielding wasn’t up to the mark. The way we fielded against Australia, it was good, but today we were not up to the standard we have maintained. The boys will have some time to reflect on this performance. You have to let the emotions seep in. There is no point in trying to forget. Let this loss hurt and come back tomorrow with your head held high.

Bavuma concluded by praising the Netherlands squad, acknowledging how they successfully applied pressure throughout and were evidently well-prepared for the fixture.

“It was a proper display from them. To get to that total after being on 112/6, credit goes to them. They also bowled well and kept us under constant pressure. It shows that they were well-prepared for today’s fixture,” Bavuma added.