Temba Bavuma [Source: AFP]Australia crushed South Africa by 214 runs by Day 5 of their series-opening first Test match in Durban. Chasing 421 runs for a win, the Proteas bundled out for just 206 in 86.5 overs.The outcome not only marked South Africa’s only second Test defeat in the ongoing 2025-27 WTC cycle, but also ended a unique captaincy streak formed by skipper Temba Bavuma.Australia halt Temba Bavuma captaincy streakThe South Africa cricket team, also the reigning WTC winners, entered its 2026 home Test series against familiar nemesis Australia on a trail of a historic whitewash in India. Moreover, prior to the match, the Proteas were also ranked second on the 2025-27 WTC points table.Even captain Temba Bavuma had spent 12 matches without suffering a single defeat for South Africa, which included 11 comprehensive wins and a draw in Port of Spain against the West Indies in the year 2024.ALSO READ"Sad For The Ultimate Format": Fans React To Low Turnout In Durban For SA vs AUS 1st TestCaptain Temba Bavuma has now suffered his first-ever defeat since becoming South Africa’s Test captain back in February 2023, with his current record reading 11 wins, a defeat and a draw from 13 Tests overall. Notably, Temba Bavuma now holds the world record of notching up the highest number of Test wins as his team’s captain before suffering his first loss. The South African cricketer went past former England skipper Mike Brearley, who registered 10 wins in his first 15 matches as captain.Bavuma’s South Africa slip to third on WTC 2025-27 standingsWith the defeat, the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa team also slipped to the third position on the 2025-27 WTC points table. They have so far registered three wins and two defeats from five matches and currently hold a PCT of 60. As the WTC cycle heads into its business stage, it is imperative for the defending champions to regain their winning mojo and secure a top two finish before the final. South Africa and Australia will now face each other in the all-important second Test of their three-match series from October 18 onwards later this weekend. The match will be hosted by the St. George’s Park Cricket Ground in Gqeberha.ALSO READWest Indies Predicted Playing XI vs India- 4th T20I, WI Tour of IND 2026
