In preparation for the two-Test series against Bangladesh, South African cricket coach Shukri Conrad has revealed why he chose uncapped youngster Dewald Brevis to join the squad as cover for the injured captain, Temba Bavuma. Brevis, a 21-year-old right-handed batsman, has shown glimpses of his potential but is yet to fully establish himself at the domestic level, with 749 runs from 12 first-class matches at an average of 37.45, including two centuries and four fifties.
His recent performances for South Africa A, where he scored 49 and 74 against Sri Lanka A in Benoni, caught the eye, but many were surprised by his inclusion over more experienced players. Conrad, however, explained his decision was based on giving the former SA U19 star a taste of international cricket.
“I thought it would be a great learning experience for him,” Conrad said. “Obviously, people would question what he has done to deserve that, but I would rather expose him to this environment. I know what he is capable of. Whether he is a generational talent is up for debate, but I think he is an exceptional talent.”
Comparing Brevis to other attacking players on the international stage, Conrad referenced New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips, an aggressive batsman who also contributes with the ball. “New Zealand have carved out a niche for Glenn Phillips, an attacking player who comes in at No. 7 or No. 8 and bowls some off-spin. Dewald can bowl some handy leg-spin, and he’s one of the best players of spin around. He also has a power game to match.”
Despite Brevis’ exciting potential, Conrad clarified that his role on this tour would be as a backup. “He is just going to Bangladesh as cover,” the coach said, ensuring that expectations remain realistic.
With Bavuma sidelined, South Africa’s top order will see a reshuffle for the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium starting on October 21. David Bedingham is expected to move up to the No. 4 spot, while Ryan Rickelton will likely slot into the middle order.
South Africa Test Squad:
- Temba Bavuma (c) – Lions
- David Bedingham – Western Province
- Matthew Breetzke – Warriors
- Dewald Brevis – Titans
- Tony de Zorzi – Western Province
- Keshav Maharaj – Dolphins
- Aiden Markram – Titans
- Wiaan Mulder – Lions
- Senuran Muthusamy – Warriors
- Lungi Ngidi – Titans
- Dane Paterson – Western Province
- Dane Piedt – Knights
- Kagiso Rabada – Lions
- Tristan Stubbs – Warriors
- Ryan Rickelton – Lions
- Kyle Verreynne – Western Province
Conrad’s decision to include Brevis highlights the Proteas’ intent to look beyond just the present series and start planning for the future. As they face a challenging tour in spin-friendly Bangladesh, it remains to be seen how the young Brevis will benefit from this experience.
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