Bavuma Exits Pakistan Tests as De Kock Rejoins ODI Squad

South Africa is set to begin defending their World Test Championship title with a two-match series in Pakistan next month, led by Aiden Markram. Regular captain Temba Bavuma is unavailable as he recovers from a grade two calf strain sustained during the recent England tour.

In positive news for the limited-overs segment of the tour, Quinton de Kock has decided to return to ODI cricket. He had retired from the 50-over format following the 2023 World Cup and hasn’t played a T20I since last year’s World Cup final in Barbados.

Returning to the Test squad is Simon Harmer, marking his first call-up since March 2023. Spinners Senuran Muthusamy and Prenelan Subrayan will accompany him. Keshav Maharaj will feature in the second Test as he continues recovering from a groin strain.

“It’s unfortunate not to have Temba available,” remarked South Africa’s head coach Shukri Conrad. “He’s been a crucial leader and batsman for our Test side. However, with most of our squad experienced in the subcontinent, I trust they will handle the challenges well.”

“Quinton’s comeback to white-ball cricket is a significant positive for us,” Conrad continued. “When discussing his future last month, it was evident he still aims to represent his country. His return will undoubtedly strengthen the team.”

Markram (right) will take on the role of Test captain with Bavuma sitting out due to injury. ©

Apart from Corbin Bosch and Dewald Brevis, players selected for both formats will rest during the white-ball series, which includes three T20Is and three ODIs. David Miller will lead the T20I side, while in-form Matthew Breetzke will captain the ODI team. Donovan Ferreira will captain the one-off T20I against Namibia on October 11.

“Matthew Breetzke has excelled in 50-over cricket, leading SA A and the Warriors with poise. I’m confident he’ll bring that same leadership to the ODI side,” noted Shukri Conrad.

“During the T20I series against England, Donovan Ferreira showed great maturity and connected well with younger squad members. Leading the T20I against Namibia offers him a valuable developmental opportunity.”

Ferreira also received his first ODI call-up, along with Sinethemba Qeshile. Rivaldo Moonsamy has been selected for the Namibia match.

Preparations for the Tests include a two-day camp in Pretoria on October 5-6 before the team’s departure for Lahore on October 7. The first Test is set for October 12.

Test squad vs Pakistan: Aiden Markram (c), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj* , Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne

*Second Test only

T20I squad vs Pakistan: David Miller (captain), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Lizaad Williams

ODI squad vs Pakistan: Matthew Breetzke (captain), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile

T20I squad vs Namibia: Donovan Ferreira (captain), Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Rubin Hermann, Kwena Maphaka, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Jason Smith, Lizaad Williams