South Africa wins Test series against Australia to reach top rankings
Captain Temba Bavuma described the 2-1 series victory as his best experience after the team secured the top ICC Men's Test ranking.
South Africa defeated Australia by 176 runs in the third and final Test at Newlands on Saturday, according to The Tribune. The victory secured a 2-1 series win for the hosts, who had lost the opening match.
The win has moved South Africa to the top of the ICC Men's Test rankings. Captain Temba Bavuma called the series win his best experience and noted that the team's bowling attack has been the backbone of their success.
In the final Test, Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder scored centuries to help the team recover from a 100-run first-innings deficit. Simon Harmer took 10 wickets in the match, while Kagiso Rabada secured three early strikes.
Bavuma said the team's performance answered critics who had previously labelled their World Test Championship final triumph a fluke. He noted that the way the team performed has provided them with belief.
The captain stated that the team aims to continue pushing standards and strengthening the reputation of the Proteas badge. He added that the team will begin preparing for Bangladesh after a week of reflection.
South Africa's series comeback follows a 214-run defeat in the opening Test in Durban and a recovery to level the series in Gqeberha.