Proteas set to maintain high standards in Bangladesh test series
Bavuma says they will look to maintain the standard that they have set.
The Proteas have announced their lineup for the opening Test against Bangladesh at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday. Captain Temba Bavuma revealed two changes from the team that played against Australia at Newlands in recent weeks. First, batter Zubayr Hamza is back in the lineup at number three, and swing bowler Dane Paterson also gets another opportunity.
However, certain players like Tony de Zorzi, David Bedingham, Keshav Maharaj, Kyle Verreynne, and Tristan Stubbs remain out of the squad. Simon Harmer retains his spot ahead of Keshav Maharaj, while Paterson takes the place of Anrich Nortje, who is still dealing with an injury and Corbin Bosch. Bavuma highlighted that Harmer is unlikely to be dropped at this point, as he is "un-droppable" at present.
He also mentioned the impact of Bangladesh's left-handed top-order batsmen on the decision. Hamza, a former Protea who played eight Tests for South Africa between 2019 and 2024, averaged 19 and scored a highest score of 62. Bavuma stated that Hamza's aggressive approach and domestic success make him perfect for his comeback against Bangladesh.
Paterson was chosen due to his experience and unique skills. Captain Bavuma expressed respect for Bangladesh's bowling, particularly their ability to trouble teams when conditions are favorable, but is confident that the Proteas have prepared adequately for the Test. The match is set to commence at 10 am on Sunday. The full Proteas XI is as follows: Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, Zubayr Hamza, Temba Bavuma, Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Kagiso Rabada, and Dane Paterson.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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