BAN Vs SA: Temba Bavuma Ruled Out Of First Test; Dewald Brevis Gets Maiden Call-Up
Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of the first Test match against Bangladesh [Source: @SportsCricket07]
In a disappointing turn of events, Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of the first Test match against Bangladesh due to a left tricep muscle strain. The injury means Bavuma will not be able to take the field when South Africa begins its campaign in Dhaka on October 21. Instead, Aiden Markram will step up to lead the team during this crucial match.
Bavuma’s injury is a blow not only to him but also to the team's morale. He sustained the strain while playing in the second One Day International (ODI) against Ireland on October 4, when he landed awkwardly on his elbow. This mishap forced him to retire hurt, and he was unable to field for the rest of the match.
Adding to the complications, fast bowler Nandre Burger has also been ruled out of the series due to a lumbar stress reaction. In response to these setbacks, Cricket South Africa has made changes to the squad, bringing in Dewald Brevis and Lungi Ngidi to bolster the team ahead of the Test series.
Who Will Lead In Bavuma's Absence?
Aiden Markram, who has been rested for the ODI series, now finds himself in a leadership role for the first Test. This responsibility comes with its own set of challenges, especially against a competitive Bangladeshi side on home turf. Markram’s performance will be closely watched as he steps into the captaincy, aiming to steer the team to success in Bavuma's absence.
Although Bavuma won’t play in the first Test, a statement from Cricket South Africa has reassured that he will travel with the team to Dhaka. He will continue his recovery under the supervision of the Proteas medical team, preparing for the second Test in Chattogram, which is set to start on October 29.
South Africa Test Squad For Bangladesh Tour:
Temba Bavuma (C), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram (CAPT for first Test), Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton (WK), Kyle Verreynne (WK)