South Africa suffered a major setback ahead of their Pakistan Test tour as skipper Temba Bavuma has been ruled out with a calf injury. The two-match series, scheduled for October-November, is part of the Proteas’ first assignment since becoming World Test Champions.
Bavuma picked up the injury during the recent white-ball tour of England. He is currently in rehab and is expected to be out for six to eight weeks. The management hopes he will return in time for the high-profile tour of India in November.
Changes in the Squad
Despite Bavuma’s absence, the core of the side that clinched the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s remains intact. Youngster Dewald Brevis, who impressed on debut against Zimbabwe, finds a place, along with Simon Harmer, Prenelan Subrayen, and Zubayr Hamza.
Harmer last featured in March 2023, while Subrayen has only recently been cleared by the ICC after being reported for a suspect bowling action. The spin group will be led by Keshav Maharaj, though he will only be available from the second Test due to a groin issue.
Coach’s Statement
Head coach Shukri Conrad admitted Bavuma’s absence is a disappointment but stressed the importance of giving him adequate recovery time.
“Temba’s calf strain will unfortunately keep him out for six to eight weeks, but the aim is to have him fully fit for the India tour in November. He has been an important leader and batter for us, and we will miss his presence. At the same time, this squad has experience in subcontinent conditions, and I’m confident they can step up to the challenge,” Conrad said.
He further added that with spin expected to play a major role in Pakistan, the inclusion of Simon Harmer was crucial to provide depth in the absence of Maharaj for the first game.
South Africa’s Squad for Pakistan Tests
- Aiden Markram (captain)
- David Bedingham
- Corbin Bosch
- Dewald Brevis
- Tony de Zorzi
- Zubayr Hamza
- Simon Harmer
- Marco Jansen
- Keshav Maharaj (second Test only)
- Wiaan Mulder
- Senuran Muthusamy
- Kagiso Rabada
- Ryan Rickelton
- Tristan Stubbs
- Prenelan Subrayen
- Kyle Verreynne
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