WATCH- "I was very nervous at that time”- Temba Bavuma on turning his back as Steve Smith's catch was being taken

South Africa defeated Australia by an innings and 31 runs in second Test.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma revealed the reason behind his viral reaction to Matthew Breetkze taking Steve Smith’s catch in the second Test of the two-match series on Thursday at St George's Park in Gqeberha.

South Africa registered a huge win over Australia by an innings and 31 runs after the Kangaroos were bowled out for 99 and forced to follow on. South Africa had made 425/9 thanks to Temba Bavuma’s 179 and a valuable contribution by Marco Jansen (85) and Simon Harmer (82).  

Australia could only manage 295 runs in their second innings after following on despite a valiant 121 by Travis Head. The three-test series now stands 1-1 after Australia had won the first test in Durban by 214 runs.

Bavuma was named Player of the Match, but he went viral for a hilarious moment on the field. The incident took place in the 83rd over of Australia's second innings, when Steve Smith mistimed a shot off Kagiso Rabada's bowling. Smith went for a big hit but could only get a thick top edge, sending the ball high into the air.

Matthew Breetzke, positioned at mid-wicket, fumbled the catch at first but managed to hold on, giving South Africa a crucial breakthrough.

Replays later revealed that while Breetzke was going for the catch, Bavuma had turned his face towards the crowd, unwilling to watch the moment unfold. The gesture had the commentators in stitches, and many joked about it after the match.

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Bavuma later gave an explanation of his emotions during the post-match press conference. He admitted that he was anxious due to the wind and that he thought Smith's wicket was crucial for South Africa.

"I was very nervous at that time. High catches here at St George's can be tough, especially when the wind is blowing like that. I couldn't see who was under the catch. So, definitely it's not a case of me not having any faith in that individual.

It just felt like a big moment in the game. Steve Smith, what an important cog he is within their batting lineup. I think I just kind of allowed my emotions to get the better of me there," Bavuma said during the post-match presentation.

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The third Test between South Africa and Australia will be played from October 27 in Cape Town.