While South Africa managed to beat India, they did so with just two balls to spare.

Bavuma has been battling with form and confidence for quite some time, although the team stands behind their skipper.

Aidan Markram, who scored 52, said Bavuma remains a vital part of their team.

"Every player goes through these form slumps and with games that are so close to each other, it can seem a lot worse than it is," said the batter.

"The whole team and management have all been there for Temba, and ideas don't change about his ability.

"We all know his ability in our team and the role that he plays, not just with the bat but also from a leadership point of view.

"His leadership, in my opinion, has been excellent and the on-field decisions he's been making have been really good."

The Proteas will face Pakistan on Thursday at the Sydney Cricket Ground in their next game at the World Cup

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport