Bavuma stunned by 'overwhelming' welcome after World Test Championship victory

JOHANNESBURG - Victorious SA captain Temba Bavuma says he's been stunned and overwhelmed by the support the Proteas receive as they arrived home from a successful outing in the World Test Championship final.

The Proteas men’s squad arrived to a hero’s welcome at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday.

This is after beating defending champions Australia over the weekend to win the World Test Championship at lord’s Cricket Ground in London.

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It’s the first time in 27 years that the senior men’s team has won a major International Cricket Council (ICC) trophy, and the first time in their history being recognised as world champions.

“It was quite overwhelming, I haven't seen a lot of people like that before. Quite different to the last time we came home from the World Cup. I think for us as players, at least for myself, you don’t think you really realise what you’ve done until you interact with people at home, to see the emotion and hear the things they’re saying. It really gives you a proper insight into what we’ve done.”

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie was also on hand to lend his support to the team.

“I want to say to Cricket SA and all the players, you have made your country very proud and we love you to bits.”

The Proteas will host their official victory celebration at Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton City on Thursday afternoon at 1pm.