Temba Bavuma has been named among the 100 most influential people in sport by TIME magazine, ESPNcricinfo reports, becoming one of only two cricketers to feature in the prestigious 2026 list alongside India batting star Smriti Mandhana.
The Proteas captain appears in the “Titans” category alongside global icons including LeBron James, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rory McIlroy and Carlos Alcaraz, recognition that reflects a remarkable period of achievement for South African cricket.
TIME editor at large Charlie Campbell chronicled Bavuma’s journey from trailblazer to champion, noting that when he became the first Black South African to score a Test century in 2016, every success and setback carried a weight far beyond the cricket field. Five years later, he became the country’s first Black Test captain.
Smriti Mandhana and Temba Bavuma are the only cricketers to feature in “The 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026” list published by TIME magazine pic.twitter.com/WmeVYi7OeQ
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 16, 2026
The honour comes on the back of the most significant chapter of Bavuma’s career. Last year he led South Africa to a historic Test series win in India before captaining the Proteas to WTC glory, defeating a heavily favoured Australia in the final to claim the country’s first international title since 1998.
Bavuma played a decisive role despite battling a hamstring strain, contributing 66 crucial runs in the final.
“It was that moment there to be recognised as more than just a Black African cricketer,” Bavuma told journalists after the WTC triumph. “I hope that it continues to inspire our country.”
The recognition places Bavuma firmly among sport’s most compelling figures heading into a defining home Test summer against Australia, Bangladesh and England.
Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images
