Following a hamstring strain suffered on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test, Temba Bavuma will be unable to participate in the upcoming Cape Town Test against India.
Following a hamstring strain suffered on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test, Temba Bavuma won’t be participating in the upcoming Cape Town Test against India. Consequently, Dean Elgar, who showcased a stellar performance in Centurion, will assume the captaincy duties.
Temba Bavuma has had to withdraw from the second Test against India due to a hamstring strain suffered at Centurion’s SuperSport Park. This setback had already limited his participation in the Boxing Day Test, originating from an injury on the first day.
Dean Elgar, who played a pivotal role with his outstanding 185-run performance, will assume the captaincy for what marks his final Test for South Africa. Elgar took charge when Bavuma left the field during the Boxing Day Test due to a hamstring issue. Zubayr Hamza has now been included in the squad as a replacement.
Bavuma sustained the injury while fielding in the 20th over of the first Test, chasing a ball towards long-off. Though scans revealed a strain without a tear, he had to exit the field immediately. Cricket South Africa stated that his condition would be closely monitored.
South Africa’s coach, Shukri Conrad, has indicated that Bavuma is presently dealing with some physical challenges. Despite his condition, Bavuma remained prepared to bat when needed and was under close observation throughout the initial Test.
“Temba is not in a great physical state. He was ready to bat at every turn. We kept monitoring it. You put something out there, I don’t know if the opposition will pick up on it,” Shukri Conrad was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
Conrad explained the decision to rule out Bavuma, “Certain things are tactical. We felt the potential risk… there is a potential risk he could aggravate. He will have it assessed in two weeks time. He is definitely out for Cape Town. Zubayr Hamza will join the squad.”
In the opening Test, South Africa showcased their authority, clinching a commanding victory over India in just three days with an innings and 32 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Stellar displays from Elgar, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Nandre Burger were instrumental, highlighting their exceptional skills with both bat and ball for the Proteas.
