South Africa’s World Test Championship-winning captain, Temba Bavuma, has been officially ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe due to a left hamstring strain. The injury, sustained during the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s, will see senior spinner Keshav Maharaj step in to lead the Proteas in his absence.
Injury Sustained During WTC Final Heroics
Bavuma suffered the hamstring strain while batting on Day 3 of South Africa’s second innings in the World Test Championship final. Despite the discomfort, the resilient captain continued to bat, playing a crucial knock of 66 and forging a match-winning partnership with centurion Aiden Markram that propelled South Africa to their historic triumph. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the news, stating that Bavuma will undergo further scans to assess the full extent of the damage.
Maharaj to Lead, Squad Sees Fresh Faces
In Bavuma’s absence, experienced left-arm orthodox spinner Keshav Maharaj will take over the captaincy duties for the short tour to Zimbabwe. The series, which marks the beginning of the new WTC cycle for both teams, will also see several key players rested, including Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, and Tristan Stubbs.
This decision has paved the way for a host of uncapped players to join the Test squad. Five new faces – Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Lesego Senokwane, Codi Yusuf, Dewald Brevis, and Prenelan Subrayen – have been included in the trimmed 15-member squad, signaling a focus on blooding new talent. Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi will be available for the second Test only.
A Recurring Setback for Bavuma
This latest hamstring injury is unfortunately the third for Bavuma in less than two years. He previously encountered similar issues during the 2023 ODI World Cup and the Boxing Day Test against India. Despite these recurring fitness concerns, Bavuma has expressed his desire to continue playing through to the 2027 home ODI World Cup, provided his body allows.
The two-Test series against Zimbabwe is scheduled to begin on June 28, with the first Test running until July 2. The second Test will follow from July 6 to July 10. Both matches will be hosted at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The South African squad is set to depart for Zimbabwe on June 24.
