The World Test Championship (WTC) final between Australia and South Africa is unfolding as a compelling contest. South Africa faces a target of 282 runs. Though their first innings performance was not remarkable, they are showing resilience in the second. Temba Bavuma contributed 36 valuable runs in the first innings, and the Proteas will rely on him to anchor the run-chase. However, in the 22nd over, Bavuma began experiencing hamstring issues, making movement difficult. Despite this, the Proteas captain is battling on, seemingly in considerable pain, yet determined to stay at the crease. His display of grit places him among a distinguished group of cricketers who have prioritized their team’s needs. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable instances of players competing with injuries:
**Top 5 Players Who Have Played Test Match Even After Being Injured**
**Hanuma Vihari and Ravi Ashwin:** In the 2021 SCG Test, Vihari (torn hamstring) and Ashwin (stiff back) played through immense pain, securing a crucial draw for India, which ultimately led to their historic Border-Gavaskar series victory.
**Graeme Smith:** Smith played with a broken hand in the 2009 SCG Test, entering at No. 11 and salvaging the game for South Africa. Although he was dismissed with 11 balls remaining, his courageous effort earned him lasting respect.
**Anil Kumble:** After suffering a broken jaw from a bouncer, Kumble returned to bowl in the 2002 Antigua Test with his face heavily bandaged, bowling 14 overs and remarkably dismissing Brian Lara in a display of exceptional bravery.
**Glenn Maxwell:** During the 2023 World Cup, Maxwell scored an iconic double century against Afghanistan, despite battling severe cramps and a hamstring injury, rescuing Australia from a precarious position of 91/7 and leading them to an improbable win.
**Shikhar Dhawan:** At the 2019 World Cup, Dhawan scored a courageous 117 against Australia while dealing with a fractured thumb. Although he subsequently withdrew from the tournament, his performance significantly contributed to India’s victory.