South Africa captain Temba Bavuma created history after leading his country to their first ICC title in 27 years as the Proteas beat Australia at Lord's on Saturday. It is their maiden WTC title and their first ICC trophy since winning the ICC Knock-Out Trophy (now ICC Champions Trophy) back in 1998.

"We deserve to be here. People said we hadn't faced strong opposition, which is rubbish. We beat Australia this time, had to be on our A game," said Bavuma after the game.

"Can't describe in words how I feel. Extremely happy, we've planned well and worked hard. Thanks to everyone for the support, last four days felt like a home game."

But Bavuma's match performance came under scrutiny on Day 1. He was criticised for his passive batting approach by former Australia legend Matthew Hayden who suggested it could favour Australia. According to Hayden, Bavuma was not showing leadership skills and needed to inspire his team with attacking intent against a strong Australian bowling attack.

"South Africa's lack of intent. That started with Temba Bavuma. As a captain, it's not just about bowling changes—it's also about setting the tone with the bat. He showed little vigour, and that's dangerous," Hayden had told Jio Star after first day's play.

But following South Africa's emphatic win, Hayden revised his stance and praised it as a remarkable achievement for South Africa, who he says were underdogs coming into the final.

"It was a champion effort. He played really good simple cricket," Hayden to cricinfo.

"Inspite of his hamstring problem, the running between the wickets was awesome. He was very positive," Hayden admitted.

From questions about his leadership to holding the trophy at Lord's, Bavuma's journey came full circle—quietly commanding, resilient, and ultimately victorious.

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