Bavuma to Sit Out 1st ODI Against Pakistan to Manage Workload Before Test Series

Paarl, Dec 16 (NationPress) South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma will be absent from the opener of the ODI series against Pakistan on Tuesday in Paarl to effectively manage his workload ahead of two significant Tests that could influence the Proteas' chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

In his absence, Aiden Markram will take charge of the home side, while Bavuma is expected to participate in the remaining matches of the series.

These encounters present South Africa with their initial and final chance to deploy their strongest squad before the Champions Trophy. Nevertheless, the team must navigate the challenge of preparing for this prestigious event while ensuring that their Test players receive adequate rest. Eight players from the ODI squad—Bavuma, Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, and Kagiso Rabada—were instrumental in the recent 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka and are anticipated to be involved against Pakistan as well.

The management is particularly vigilant concerning their fast bowlers due to a series of injuries affecting the pace lineup. Wiaan Mulder is attempting to recover from a broken finger in time for the Boxing Day match, while Lungi Ngidi (hip injury) and Gerald Coetzee (groin issue) are out until January. Nandre Burger is sidelined for the season due to a stress fracture in his lower back. Anrich Nortje, who could have provided support for Rabada and Jansen, is unavailable because of a broken toe and has also stepped back from red-ball cricket to recuperate from ongoing injuries.

"Not everyone we would typically rely on is available due to injuries. We have bowlers within the squad, so we would like to create opportunities for some players, rest others, and provide chances for different individuals. We will strive to balance this as effectively as possible," Bavuma expressed ahead of Tuesday's match.

Following the conclusion of the ODI series, South Africa will face Pakistan in a two-Test series, aiming to secure their spot in the WTC final for the first time.

South Africa ascended to the top of the WTC standings after completing a commanding 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, pushing Australia and India to the second and third positions, respectively.