President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Image: BackpagePix

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has heaped praise on the Proteas men’s team for bestowing “sweet pride” on the nation following their thrilling 2-1 Test series victory over Australia.

After stumbling in the opening Test in Durban, the Proteas showed tremendous character to win the next two encounters at St George’s Park and Newlands. Their 176-run victory in the series decider was a fitting conclusion to a fiercely contested series.

The victory in Cape Town also secured the Proteas the ICC No 1 Test ranking. The Proteas, who already hold the ICC Test Championship mace as World Test Champions, last occupied the top position in January 2016.

Captain Temba Bavuma deserves enormous credit. Having come under scrutiny following the Durban defeat, the captain responded with the bat and through his leadership in the second Test in Gqeberha.

Coach Shukri Conrad, meanwhile, has built a team that combines experience, emerging talent and a willingness to fight for one another.

“We have surpassed many of the things we have put to ourselves because of the oneness and togetherness we have as a team” - #Proteas captain Temba Bavuma on his team reaching the No 1 Test ranking. @iol @iolsport #SAvAUS 🏏🏆 https://t.co/VSy4HeMeCp

— Zaahier Adams (@ZaahierAdams) October 31, 2026

“On behalf of government and the nation, I commend captain Temba Bavuma, coach Shukri Conrad and the technical team for consolidating their status as the world’s best Test side,” Ramaphosa posted on X.

“This past weekend’s 176-run win at Newlands made for gritty entertainment and the sweet pride that comes with beating the Aussies.”

Ramaphosa was also gracious in acknowledging Australia’s contribution to the epic series.

“Still, we thank Australia for taking on the challenge and joining the Proteas in delivering some outstanding cricket early in an action-packed summer.”

Ramaphosa believes the Proteas’ Test success can translate into the ODI format, particularly with the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup returning to Southern Africa next year for the first time in 24 years.

“The Proteas have done the country proud with bat and ball, and are poised to do well in next year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe,” he said.

“Our region will be buzzing with this thrilling sport.”

The Proteas’ next assignment is an all-format tour by Bangladesh, with the first Test against the Tigers scheduled to take place at the Wanderers in Johannesburg on 15 November.