Dhaka: Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of South Africa’s second Test against Bangladesh as he continues to recover from an elbow injury. Aiden Markram will continue to lead the side in the series in Bavuma’s absence, with the latter aiming to be fit for the home Test series against Sri Lanka next month.
Bavuma injured his elbow in an ODI against Ireland earlier this month after falling awkwardly to complete a run. He retired hurt on 35 in the match and did not return to the field. It is the same elbow which got hurt during the T20I tour of India in 2022.
“We just feel medically he’s not going to be ready for the second Test. We will tone down the (rehabilitation) programme so that he can be ready for the Sri Lankan series,” South Africa’s Test coach Shukri Conrad said. With Bavuma not taking any further part in the series, it is still uncertain whether he will stay with the squad in Dhaka or fly back home to continue his rehabilitation and prepare for the Sri Lanka series.
South Africa’s domestic first-class season kicks off on Wednesday, giving Bavuma the opportunity to play in up to three matches before the first Test against Sri Lanka at Kingsmead on November 27.
“I’d like him to stay (in Bangladesh), and I’ve communicated that with him. But I also know that he’s got a young family. But yes, I’d like him to stay. He still plays a valuable role. It’s still his team. We’ll see how it unfolds,” Conrad said.