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South Africa have received a major boost ahead of their upcoming Test series against India as regular captain Temba Bavuma returns to the side after recovering from a left calf strain. The two-match Test series begins on November 14 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, with the second and final Test scheduled at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati from November 22.
Temba Bavuma back to strengthen South African batting
Bavuma sustained his injury during an ODI against England last month, forcing him to miss the recent tour of Pakistan, where the Proteas squared the two-Test series 1-1. His return adds solidity and leadership to the batting unit, which features a blend of experience and youthful exuberance.
The middle-order is expected to revolve around Bavuma, while openers Aiden Markram and Tony de Zorzi will shoulder the top-order responsibilities. The inclusion of young talents like Dewald Brevis and Ryan Rickelton reflects South Africa’s intent to build for the future while maintaining stability. Kyle Verreynne has been confirmed as the side’s designated wicketkeeper.
Spin department retains key architects of Pakistan success
The spin trio of Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, and Senuran Muthusamy — instrumental in South Africa’s win in Karachi — have retained their places in the squad. Their combined experience and adaptability will be crucial on India’s spin-friendly pitches.
However, Prenelan Subrayen, who featured in the Pakistan series, has been left out. The selectors appear to have opted for a more balanced squad, trimming the spin options to three while reinforcing the pace attack.
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Kagiso Rabada to lead pace attack
Pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada will once again lead the fast-bowling unit, supported by Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Wiaan Mulder. While Rabada’s aggression and consistency make him a key figure, the younger quicks bring freshness and variety to the attack.
Bosch, who has impressed in domestic red-ball cricket, is in line to make his Test debut, while Mulder and Jansen provide valuable all-round options. Their ability to contribute with both bat and ball could prove decisive in Indian conditions.
After a hard-fought series in Pakistan, South Africa will now shift their focus to India — a venue where they have historically struggled. However, with a rejuvenated squad and Bavuma’s return to captaincy, the visitors will aim to make a strong statement against Rohit Sharma’s men.
The tour also provides a platform for several young players like Brevis, de Zorzi, and Rickelton to test their mettle against one of the world’s strongest red-ball teams. For Bavuma, this series marks not just a comeback from injury but an opportunity to lead his side to a memorable overseas success.
South Africa Test squad for India series
Temba Bavuma (c), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne.
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