In a significant development ahead of the upcoming Test series, South Africa’s World Test Championship-winning captain Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of the two-match Test series against Zimbabwe due to a left hamstring strain sustained during the WTC Final against Australia.
🏏 Keshav Maharaj Named Stand-In Captain
With Bavuma sidelined, veteran spinner Keshav Maharaj will take over the reins, marking his debut as South Africa’s Test captain. Maharaj has previously led the Proteas in ODIs and T20Is, but this will be his first stint in red-ball leadership.
“Bavuma sustained the injury while batting during South Africa’s second innings on Day 3 of the WTC Final at Lord’s,” said Cricket South Africa in an official statement.
📅 Series Schedule
- 1st Test: June 28 – July 2, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
- 2nd Test: July 6 – 10, same venue
🧪 Squad Composition and New Faces
South Africa has opted not to name a replacement for Bavuma. The squad includes five uncapped players, including rising stars Dewald Brevis and Lhuan-dre Pretorius, signaling a focus on bench strength.
South Africa Squad: Keshav Maharaj (c), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi (2nd Test), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne, Codi Yusuf.
🩺 Bavuma’s Injury History
This marks Bavuma’s third hamstring injury in under two years, raising concerns about his long-term fitness. He is expected to undergo further scans and may return for South Africa’s ODI series against Australia in August.
Stay tuned for match previews and live updates from Bulawayo.
