Temba Bavuma, a prominent figure in South African cricket, has been named to TIME's 2026 list of the most influential people in sports. Bavuma has often carried the dual pressure of representing his nation and being a symbol for change within the sport as one of a few Black South African cricketers.
His career highlights include becoming the first Black South African to score a century in 2016. Five years later, he ascended to captaincy, leading South Africa to significant victories. In the past year, Bavuma captained the team to a historic Test series win in India and secured the World Test Championship (WTC) title. In the WTC final, he played a crucial role with 66 runs despite a hamstring injury, helping South Africa emerge undefeated from the tournament. This victory marked the nation's first international title since 1998.
"It was that moment there to be recognized as more than just a Black African cricketer," Bavuma told journalists following the WTC victory. "And I hope that it continues to inspire our country."