Hashim Amla: Temba Bavuma and other ‘coloured’ cricketers doubted in South Africa

Hashim Amla stated that coloured players were doubted for their merit in the South African team, despite their good record.

South Africa batsman Hashim Amla, who stepped down from Test captaincy recently, stated on Thursday that players of colour are doubted in their team despite them having statistics to back themselves. Amla’s statement comes after Temba Bavuma became the first black South African cricketer to score a Test century during the second match at the Newlands in Cape Town, the match of which resulted in a draw. Bavuma’s ton has been seen as a major milestone for black Africans in the sport, and as a source of inspiration for more black cricketers to join the ranks in the South African team. Bavuma was unbeaten on 102 in South Africa’s only innings in the second Test, as the Proteas declared on a commanding 627 for seven, with Amla top-scoring with a majestic 201. READ: Hope my knock inspires many young black Africans, Temba Bavuma

“Obviously personally, I know the pressure, what players of colour go through when they first come into the set-up – certainly in our country. So, it was emotional for a lot of us.

“I think a lot of us felt that like it was a victory for the Proteas in the sense that the team environment is in a very good space,” Amla was quoted as saying according to a post on iol.co.za.

Amla was full of praise for young Bavuma, whose inclusion in the Test side had raised many a question, given the fact that South African cricket is marred with instances of racial undertones in their selection policy.

“Temba’s a very good example for all of us. The way he batted in this game was very inspirational for even guys like me – the intent he showed. I wished when I was his age, I showed that type of confidence and intent that he showed,” said Amla.

“We both have very similar careers – the first time we do play international cricket, everyone doubts you. Either because of the colour of your skin, even though you’ve got the stats to back it up domestically, everybody doubts you for various reasons.

“The way he’s played, for me it’s testament to the environment we have in the team,” further added Amla.

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