South Africa’s regular Test captain, Temba Bavuma, will miss the second Test against Bangladesh, set to begin next Tuesday. The captain hasn’t fully recovered from an elbow injury, and Aiden Markram will step in to lead the side. The team hopes Bavuma will be ready for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka next month.
Medical Update on Bavuma’s Injury
Coach Shukri Conrad confirmed that Bavuma is not medically fit for the second Test. “We have decided to tone down his rehabilitation program to prepare him for the Sri Lanka series,” Conrad said from Dhaka. The team is still deciding whether Bavuma will stay in Bangladesh with the squad or return home to continue his recovery.
Recovery and Possible Return
The first-class competition kicks off next week, and Bavuma’s team, Lions, will have three matches before the first Test against Sri Lanka. “I’d like him to stay with the team here in Bangladesh, but I understand he has family commitments,” Conrad added. Bavuma suffered the injury during an ODI against Ireland, where he landed awkwardly while completing a run, re-aggravating an old elbow injury from 2022.
Options for South Africa’s Line-Up
With Bavuma sidelined, Matthew Breetzke, who made his debut in the first Test, could continue in the playing XI. Another option is Senuran Muthusamy, a left-hander who can also bowl left-arm spin. South Africa had a successful first Test in Mirpur, thanks to a strong bowling performance led by Kagiso Rabada, who took nine wickets, including his 300th in Test cricket.
Aiden Markram Takes the Captain’s Role
Aiden Markram, who has experience leading the side, will captain the team. South Africa’s win in Mirpur was driven by a mix of solid performances, including Kyle Verreynne’s century and Tristan Stubbs’ composed innings at No. 3. The calm and disciplined approach helped the team stay focused even when under pressure.
World Test Championship Hopes
South Africa’s victory has kept them in the race for a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. They are currently fourth on the WTC points table, needing at least four wins from their remaining five Tests to have a chance at the final. The upcoming Tests include one more against Bangladesh, followed by two each against Sri Lanka and Pakistan at home.
Coach Conrad emphasized that the team remains grounded despite the win. “We are aware of the hard work ahead. The Chattogram Test will be tough, and we need to perform well. The World Test Championship is like our World Cup, and we’ll need to keep dreaming while putting in the hard graft.”
South Africa Test Squad for Bangladesh Series
- Captain: Aiden Markram
- Players: David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Kyle Verreynne
South Africa will aim to extend their lead in the series as they face Bangladesh in the second Test. Bavuma’s absence will be felt, but the team remains focused on continuing their winning momentum.