South Africa batting coach Ashwell Prince was asked about the 'bauna' remark made on Temba Bavuma by India's Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. After the conclusion of Day 1's pay, Ashwell Prince, during the press conference, stated that the South Africa will have 'no discussion' regarding the controversial "bauna" (dwarf) comment made by Bumrah and Pant about their captain.
South Africa won't discuss 'bauna' remark made on Temba Bavuma
The incident occurred during the 13th over of South Africa's innings. Bumrah bowled a sharp nip-backer that struck Bavuma on the back thigh after he played down the wrong line. Following Bumrah's immediate appeal, which was turned down by the on-field umpire, the pacer convened with Rishabh Pant. While discussing the height at which the ball struck the South African captain, they were heard referring to him as a 'bauna'.
It’s the first time it’s come to my attention: Ashwell Prince
“No. There will be no discussion. It’s the first time it’s come to my attention. I don’t think there’ll be any issues with what’s happened," Prince said.
The LBW appeal against Temba Bavuma, which triggered the controversial exchange between Bumrah and Pant, was ultimately ruled not-out. However, Bavuma failed to capitalize and was soon dismissed by spinner Kuldeep Yadav for just 3 runs off 11 balls. South Africa's innings wrapped up quickly, folding for 159 runs in 55 overs. In response, India managed to score 37 for the loss of one wicket in 20 overs before bad light ended the day's play, leaving them trailing South Africa's first innings total by 122 runs heading into Day 2.
“Siraj, in his first spell, did not quite hit his steps. However, he came back in his second spell when he changed ends, and it was pretty good. Found his rhythm and found his line in there. But Bumrah was relentless and the spinners were pretty good as well. So I think there were quite a few good deliveries and sometimes there’s batters. There’s not a lot you can do about them. We’ve got to work hard. A long way to go in the game. And hopefully, we’ll do better in the second innings," he added.
Talking about the opening day's play, India first bundled out South Africa for a paltry 159 riding on Jasprit Bumrah's sizzling fifer. By the close of day, India were placed at 37/1 with KL Rahul and Washington intact on the crease.