Proteas Forced into Changes for Bangladesh Test Series

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13Oct, 2024
The Proteas’ upcoming test series against Bangladesh has seen significant changes to the squad ahead of their departure to Dhaka. Temba Bavuma, South Africa's Test captain, has been ruled out of the first Test after scans revealed a left tricep muscle strain. Despite his absence on the field, Bavuma will still travel with the squad to continue his rehabilitation under the supervision of the Proteas medical team. His aim is to return in time for the second Test of the series, which starts on 29 October in Chattogram.
Aiden Markram to Lead in Bavuma’s Absence
In Bavuma’s absence, experienced batter Aiden Markram will captain the side for the first Test. Markram’s leadership will be crucial as the Proteas look to make an early impact in the series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, with the first Test scheduled to begin on 21 October. Markram's previous captaincy experience, combined with his form, positions him as a capable leader to guide the team through this early hurdle.
Dewald Brevis Earns Maiden Test Call-Up
In a significant boost for South Africa’s young talent, 21-year-old Dewald Brevis has been added to the squad as cover. The Momentum Multiply Titans batter impressed selectors with his recent performances for South Africa A, particularly during a four-day match against Sri Lanka A last month, where he registered scores of 49 and 74. This call-up marks Brevis’ first inclusion in the Test squad, and he will be eager to make an impression should the opportunity arise during the series.
Lungi Ngidi Replaces Injured Nandre Burger
Another change to the squad comes in the bowling department, where fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been named as a replacement for Nandre Burger. Burger has been ruled out of the Bangladesh tour due to a lumbar stress fracture and will now undergo rehabilitation with Cricket South Africa and the World Sports Betting Western Province medical teams. Ngidi’s return strengthens the Proteas' bowling lineup, as his experience and pace are key to dismantling Bangladesh’s batting order in subcontinental conditions.
Preparations At Red-Ball Camp
Ahead of the series, the squad convened for a red-ball camp at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria from 12 to 14 October. The camp was crucial for the team to adapt their strategies and prepare for the challenging conditions they will face in Bangladesh. The combination of South Africa’s seasoned campaigners and emerging talents like Brevis will be pivotal in ensuring that the Proteas start the series on a positive note despite Bavuma’s absence.
Proteas Test Squad for Bangladesh Tour
Temba Bavuma (captain, DP World Lions)
David Bedingham (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Matthew Breetzke (Dafabet Warriors)
Dewald Brevis (Momentum Multiply Titans)
Tony de Zorzi (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
Aiden Markram (Momentum Multiply Titans, stand-in captain)
Wiaan Mulder (DP World Lions)
Senuran Muthusamy (Dafabet Warriors)
Lungi Ngidi (Momentum Multiply Titans)
Dane Paterson (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Dane Piedt (Knights)
Kagiso Rabada (DP World Lions)
Tristan Stubbs (Dafabet Warriors)
Ryan Rickelton (DP World Lions)
Kyle Verreynne (World Sports Betting Western Province)
Test Series Fixtures (CAT)
1st Test: 21 - 25 October, Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka (6am)
2nd Test: 29 October - 2 November, Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram (6am)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]