The South African cricket team’s exit from the World Cup was a disappointment to fans who had hoped for a repeat of the rugby team’s triumphant run. Skipper Temba Bavuma’s admission that he played in a crucial match while not in top form led to criticism and comparisons with rugby captain Siya Kolisi. While both sports are team games, their dynamics and pressures are different, and the circumstances leading to Bavuma’s decision and Kolbe’s exclusion from a rugby match were different. In sports, defeats are lessons learned, and setbacks offer opportunities for strong comebacks.