South Africa has officially ruled out captain Temba Bavuma from the second and final Test against Bangladesh as he recovers from a left elbow injury. Bavuma, who missed the first Test due to the same injury, will have Aiden Markram step in as captain once again.
South Africa’s Test coach confirmed Bavuma’s progress but noted he is not yet match-fit. Cricket South Africa stated that while Bavuma has shown improvement, he won’t be ready for the second Test, set to start on October 29 in Chattogram. Coach Shukri Conrad highlighted that the medical team reviewed Bavuma’s condition yesterday and confirmed his recovery program.
With Bavuma out, Aiden Markram will continue to lead the Proteas, who recently moved up to fourth in the WTC 2023-25 rankings following a seven-wicket win over Bangladesh in the first Test in Mirpur. Bavuma initially sustained the elbow injury earlier this month during an ODI against Ireland. He injured it further while attempting a run, forcing him to retire hurt on 35 and miss fielding duties. This injury affected the same elbow that Bavuma had previously hurt on South Africa’s T20I tour of India in 2022, which later sidelined him from the England tour.
In Bavuma’s absence, Matthew Breetzke, who made his debut in the first Test, could retain the No. 6 spot unless South Africa opts for an additional all-rounder or bowler. Left-hander Senuran Muthusamy, a left-arm spinner, may also be considered.
Cricket South Africa confirmed on Friday that Bavuma won’t recover in time for the second Test in Chattogram.
South Africa Test Squad for Bangladesh Series:
Aiden Markram (capt.), 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, and Kyle Verreynne.
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