‘He Will Be Missed’: Temba Bavuma Ruled Out of Pakistan Test Series With Calf Injury

Temba Bavuma Ruled Out of Pakistan Test Series With Calf Injury

South Africa’s Test captain Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of the team’s opening World Test Championship (WTC) assignment against Pakistan.

The 34-year-old strained his calf during the recent white-ball series in England and will require six to eight weeks of recovery.

With Bavuma sidelined, Aiden Markram will lead the Proteas during the two-Test series in Pakistan

Also Read: Here’s Why Proteas Captain Temba Bavuma Was Ruled Out of Zimbabwe Test Series

Conrad: “Temba’s Presence Will Be Missed”

Head coach Shukri Conrad expressed his disappointment at losing Bavuma at such a critical juncture, while stressing the importance of experienced campaigners in the squad.

“Temba’s calf strain will unfortunately keep him sidelined for six to eight weeks, but the focus is on giving him the best chance to be fully ready for the India tour in November. Naturally, we are disappointed not to have Temba available. He has been such an important leader and batter for us in the Test side, and his presence on and off the field will be missed.

“At the same time, the majority of the Test squad have experience of playing in the subcontinent and understand the demands that come with it, so I’m confident they will embrace the challenge. Pakistan is one of the tougher places to tour, and with spin-friendly conditions expected and Keshav only available from the second game, it was important to have an experienced campaigner like Simon in the squad to provide extra depth in the spin department.”

Growing Concerns Over Bavuma’s Fitness

Bavuma’s latest setback adds to a worrying injury record over the past year. He missed South Africa’s recent Test series in Zimbabwe due to a hamstring strain suffered in the WTC final. Before that, a recurring left elbow injury — first fractured in 2022 — kept him sidelined for two months.

Conrad admitted that the recurring setbacks are a major concern.

“Very concerned about Temba. Every series has been an injury and it is not for want of him of trying. He is doing everything in his powers to make sure he remains injury free. His form is definitely good enough and he is definitely worth managing. Age is not on his side so it is a concern but I am confident in the medical staff and Temba’s desire to get him fit.”