New Delhi: Nineteen months ago, as India celebrated its second T20 world title in Bridgetown, Barbados, Aiden Markram looked dazed on the boundary rope. The South Africa captain later admitted that he was “frustrated” that his side could not cross the finish line despite seemingly having the chase for 177 in the final under control.
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Cut to the June 2025 main event. Markram was grinning from ear to ear after his 136-run win over Australia in the World Test Championship final to claim the maiden world title under Temba Bavuma, and even found time to have a beer with an old friend near the boundary fence.
The 31-year-old, who led South Africa to victory at the 2014 U-19 World Cup, has experienced both success and disappointment during his eight-year international career.
After assuming full-time captaincy duties for the SA T20 side in 2023, Markram appears calmer and more composed. But beyond his icy demeanor lies a fierce competitor who has earned the respect of his entire team.
“Aiden has been great with the bat in his hands and as a leader. But you are only as good as your team and he is the first to admit that. So it is easy to captain a bowling team that is at the top of the game and the batsmen are firing. But Eden, yes, he has been at the forefront of everything we do,” South Africa head coach Shukri Konrad said.
SA batting coach Ashwell Prince said captains often act as a bridge between players and support staff. “When he steps on the field, he has a clear understanding of all the discussions we have and the different possibilities that may arise in the game. In terms of his leadership, he communicates well with the bowlers in the middle as well as with the coaching staff. We tend to trust all his ideas and information,” Prince said.
“I’ve always thought the slot was his best position. A phrase my kids would use is that his focus is really ‘locked’ right now,” Prince added.
