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Temba Bavuma has been officially ruled out of South Africa’s first Test against Bangladesh, set to take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on October 21. A statement from Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the significant change. Alongside Bavuma, Fast bowler Nandre Burger will also miss the full series.
Temba Bavuma’s injury and recovery plan
Bavuma sustained a left tricep muscle strain earlier this month, which led to his being ruled out of the third and final ODI against Ireland on October 6. The injury occurred during the second ODI on October 4, when he had to retire hurt and was unable to take the field. His absence saw Rassie van der Dussen step in as captain, while Aiden Markram was rested for the series. After undergoing scans that confirmed the extent of the injury, Bavuma’s recovery plan will involve traveling with the squad to Dhaka on Tuesday. There, he will work closely with the Proteas medical team, focusing on rehabilitation efforts aimed at getting him fit for the second Test, set to commence on October 29 in Chattogram.
A CSA statement said that Bavuma will “travel with the squad to Dhaka on Tuesday and continue his recovery under the supervision of the Proteas medical team in preparation for the second Test”,
South Africa’s leadership transition
With Bavuma sidelined, the responsibility of leading the team falls to Markram. This opportunity mark a pivotal moment in Markram’s career, allowing him to showcase his leadership skills on a prominent stage. As captain, Markram will aim to maintain team morale and strategic focus as they face a challenging opposition in Bangladesh. The first Test is scheduled to take place from October 21, where Markram will lead a squad determined to start the series on a high note.
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Squad adjustments and new additions for the Test series against Bangladesh
To fill the void left by Bavuma, the Proteas have called up the promising young talent, Dewald Brevis. At just 21 years old, Brevis will make his Test debut, adding an exciting dynamic to the squad. His selection follows impressive performances for South Africa A against Sri Lanka A, where he scored 49 and 74 in the second four-day match. Brevis’s versatility and potential have garnered attention, and his inclusion reflects South Africa’s commitment to nurturing young players in the national setup.
In addition to Brevis, fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been named as a replacement for Nandre Burger, who will miss the tour due to a lumbar stress fracture. Ngidi’s return to the squad comes after his solid showing in the recent ODI series against Ireland, where he showcased his capabilities by picking up crucial wickets. His experience will be vital in bolstering the pace attack, which already includes notable bowlers like Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson and allrounder Wiaan Mulder. This fast-bowling unit will be essential for South Africa as they aim to exploit the conditions in Bangladesh.
