Bavuma played a starring role with a fighting unbeaten 55 in his side’s second innings that proved crucial in them setting a defendable target.
“It’s very exciting,” Bavuma said. “We want to be a part of these games and be on the right side of the result. It was tough for us and we needed the bowlers to bring us back into it. We were able to change them frequently and that worked for us.
Bavuma put on 44 for the eight wicket with Corbin Bosch (25) that in the context of the game was huge in getting South Africa to 153 all out in their second innings.
“My stand with Bosch was nice. The wicket played better this morning, wasn't as extreme. It is not all the time that you score 120 and believe you are in the game.”
Bavuma has won 10 of his 11 tests as captain and led the side to the World Test Championship by beating Australia in the final at Lord’s in June.
But crucially also, he has averaged 57.00 with the bat in that time and scored three centuries and six fifties in his 19 innings.
“The captaincy, you only as good as the players. That I give it to them. Batting, I am just comfortable with myself and technique. I stand as still as I can, watch the ball.
“I have come here wanting to do well. It was about awareness, the leg opening up a little bit. The way I played it. Second innings, I didn't change too much. I have played here before and I understand the conditions, and luck also played the part."
Bavuma also took a crucial, difficult running catch to dismiss Axar Patel just as the latter was bringing India back into the game with the bat.
“That was not easy and a crucial moment, Axar had momentum on his side. Fortunately, he was able to make a mistake and I was able to grab it with my small hands.”
The second and final test starts in Guwahati on Saturday.