Temba Bavuma included as CSA announces South Africa A teams for multi-format tour of India
South Africa Test Captain Temba Bavuma is set to make a comeback from a calf injury during the upcoming tour of South Africa. India later this month. Bavuma, who missed the Test series in Pakistan and was also left out of the ODI squad to aid his recovery, will be available for the second of two four-day matches in Bengaluru. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced the South Africa A teams for the multi-format tour, which will include two first-class matches and three one-day matches. The tour will serve as crucial preparation for Bavuma ahead of the Test series against India in mid-November.
Marques Ackerman to lead South Africa A teams with inclusion of Temba Bavuma
Ackerman Brands was named captain of the four-day and one-day teams for the tour of India. Bavuma’s inclusion for the second first-class match marks a significant milestone in his return to play program as South Africa prepare to defend their country. 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. Zubayr Hamza And Prénelan Subrayenwho are currently touring Pakistan, while seamer Codi Yusuf was rewarded for his white ball performances.
Spinner Kyle Simmonds received his first SA A call-up, although he is versatile Delano Potgieter joins the 50 and over configuration for the first time. The team will leave Johannesburg on October 25, looking to build on their recent outing against New Zealand Awhere they won the one-day series 2-1 but lost the four-day match 0-1. The return of Bavuma, combined with the presence of promising local artists, adds strength and experience to the touring contingent.
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South Africa head coach Wandile Gwavu confident ahead of Indian challenge
South Africa A head coach Wandile Gwavu expressed his excitement about the opportunity to compete in India, emphasizing the importance of playing in sub-continental conditions. “We are looking forward to this tour and are looking forward to the challenge of competing with India in their own backyard. Our ability to play and bowl has improved significantly over the years, so playing in the subcontinent, which will be a first for many players, will be a good test,” Gwavu was quoted by Supersport.
He stressed the importance of adaptability and mental strength in facing the challenges of the Indian pitches, noting that the experience gained would be vital for players pushing for selection into the senior team. “It’s been a while since South Africa A last toured India, and playing there always requires adaptability. Gaining experience on surfaces across the subcontinent, particularly in the red-ball format, will be invaluable to our players as we continue to build towards future tours and potential opportunities for the Proteas.” The series promises to be a valuable testing ground for South Africa’s next generation, with Bavuma’s return symbolizing both leadership stability and a renewed focus ahead of their next test mission to India.
South Africa A four-day team against India A:
Marques Ackerman (captain), Temba Bavuma*, Okuhle Cele, Zubayr Hamza, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tshepo Moreki, Mihlali Mpongwana, Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Simmonds, Tsepo Ndwandwa, Jason Smith, Tiaan van Vuuren, Codi Yusuf.
*Available for the second match only
South Africa One Day Team vs India A:
Marques Ackerman (Captain), Ottneil Baartman, Sern Fortuin, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Kwena Maphaka, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tsheko Moonsamy, Tshekore, Mpongwana, Nqaba Peter, Delano Potgieter, Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Sinethemba Masele, Jason Smith, Codi Yusuf.
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