South African ODI captain, Temba Bavuma, is expected to miss the white-ball segment of the upcoming tour in India this month. Following what many consider a challenging World Cup performance, Bavuma has been granted a break to prepare for the Test series beginning in Centurion on Boxing Day, as reported by the Rapport newspaper. Aiden Markram, currently the T20 international captain, is anticipated to lead the 50-over side in Bavuma’s absence.
This decision appears to be strategic. The 2023 World Cup highlighted the relatively high average age of South Africa’s batting lineup, suggesting the team would benefit from integrating younger players. Tristan Stubbs, with only one One Day International match under his belt, and Dewald Brevis, who has yet to debut in ODI cricket, are notable examples.
Quinton de Kock is also expected to sit out the T20 internationals, having retired from ODI cricket following the 2023 World Cup.
The squad for the India tour is set to be announced on Monday, December 4th. The South Africa vs India fixtures are as follows:
- 1st T20I: Sunday, December 10th at Kingsmead, Durban
- 2nd T20I: Tuesday, December 12th at St George’s Park, Gqeberha
- 3rd T20I: Thursday, December 14th at Wanderers, Johannesburg
- 1st ODI: Sunday, December 17th at Wanderers, Johannesburg
- 2nd ODI: December 19th at St George’s Park, Gqeberha
- 3rd ODI: December 21st at Boland Park, Paarl
- 1st Test: December 26th – 30th at SuperSport Park, Centurion
- 2nd Test: January 3rd – 7th at Newlands, Cape Town
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