The WTC final between Australia and South Africa is proving to be an enthralling contest. South Africa is currently chasing a target of 282 runs. While their first innings performance was not outstanding, they are showing promise in the second. Temba Bavuma has already scored 36 important runs, and the Proteas will be looking for his continued contribution. However, Bavuma began experiencing a hamstring problem in the 22nd over, making movement challenging. Despite this, the Proteas captain is playing on for his team, visibly in pain, but unwilling to give up his wicket. Bavuma’s determination is reminiscent of a legacy of cricketers who have committed themselves entirely to their teams. Here are some of those memorable instances.
**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) battled through excruciating pain to help India secure a draw, which was instrumental in winning the historic Border-Gavaskar series.
**Graeme Smith:** Smith played with a broken hand in the 2009 SCG Test, coming in at No. 11 and saving the game for South Africa. He was eventually dismissed with only 11 balls to spare, yet his fighting spirit gained him immense respect worldwide.
**Anil Kumble:** After being struck by a bouncer that broke his jaw, Kumble came back to bowl in the 2002 Antigua Test, with his face wrapped in bandages, bowling 14 overs and famously dismissing Brian Lara in one of cricket’s bravest moments.
**Glenn Maxwell:** During the 2023 World Cup, playing against Afghanistan, Maxwell scored an iconic double century, despite suffering from extreme cramps and a hamstring injury, and single-handedly saved Australia, who were struggling at 91/7, to achieve an unimaginable victory.
**Shikhar Dhawan:** In the 2019 World Cup, Dhawan scored a brave 117 against Australia while playing with a fractured thumb. Although he was later ruled out of the tournament, his valuable contribution helped secure a vital victory for India.