South Africa test captain Temba Bavuma Set to return from calf injury sustained during upcoming South Africa A tour India later this month. Bavuma, who missed the Test series in Pakistan and was also dropped from the ODI squad to aid his recovery, will be available for the second of the two four-day matches in Bengaluru. Cricket South Africa (CSA) The South Africa A squad was announced for the multi-format tour, which will consist of two first-class matches and three one-day matches. The tour will serve as important preparation for Bavuma ahead of the Test series against India in mid-November.
Marques Ackerman to lead South Africa A team with inclusion of Temba Bavuma
marques ackerman Has been appointed the captain of both the four-day and one-day teams for the tour of India. Bavuma’s inclusion for a second first-class game marks an important step in his return to action programme, as South Africa prepare to defend their World Test Championship (WTC) title.
The four-day matches will be played at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bengaluru from October 30 to November 9, while the one-day matches will be played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot from November 13 to 19. The red-ball squad includes Zubair Hamzah and Prenellan Subbryan, who are currently touring Pakistan, while fast bowler Kodi Yousuf has been rewarded for his white-ball exploits. Display. Western Province spinner Kyle Simmonds has received a maiden SA A call-up, while Lions all-rounder Delano Potgieter has been included in the 50-over setup for the first time. The team will depart from Johannesburg on 25 October, looking to build on their recent performance against New Zealand A, where they won the one-day series 2–1, but lost the four-day leg 0–1. Bavuma’s return, along with the presence of promising homegrown artists, adds strength and experience to the touring party.
South Africa A head coach Wandile Gwavu is confident ahead of India challenge
South Africa A head coach Wandile Gwavu expressed his excitement about the opportunity to compete in India, stressing the importance of playing in subcontinental conditions. “We are looking forward to this tour and are looking forward to the challenge of competing against India on home soil. Our ability to play spin and bowl has improved significantly over the last few years, so playing in the subcontinent, which will be a first for many players, will be a good test.” Gwavu said.
He highlighted the importance of adaptability and mental toughness when facing the challenges of Indian pitches, noting that the experience gained will be crucial for the players for senior team selection. “It has been a long time since South Africa A last toured India, and playing there always demands adaptability. Gaining experience on subcontinent surfaces, particularly in the red ball format, will be invaluable to our players as we continue to work towards future tours and potential Proteas opportunities.” This series promises to be a valuable proving ground for South Africa’s next generation, with Bavuma’s return symbolizing leadership stability and a renewed focus ahead of their upcoming Test assignment in India.
South Africa A four-day squad against India A:
Marques Ackerman (captain), Temba Bavuma*, Okuhle Cele, Zubair Hamzah, Jordan Harman, Rubin Harman, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tshepo Moreki, Mihalali Mpongwana, Lesego Senokwane, Prenlan Subraine, Kyle Simmonds, Tshepo Ndwandwa, Jason Smith, Tian van Vuuren, Cody Yusuf.
*Available for second match only
South Africa A one-day squad against India A:
Marques Ackerman (captain), Otniel Bartman, Bjorn Fortuyn, Jordan Harman, Rubin Harman, Kwena Mphaka, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tshepo Moreki, Mihalali Mpongwana, Nqaba Peter, Delano Potgieter, Luan-Dre Pretorius, Sinethemba Keshile, Jason Smith, Kodi Joseph.