WTC winning-captain Temba Bavuma ruled out of ZIM Tests; veteran spinner to lead SA

South Africa’s Test side has been dealt a significant blow ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against neighbours Zimbabwe, with captain Temba Bavuma ruled out due to a left hamstring strain. Bavuma picked up the injury while batting during South Africa’s second innings on the third day of the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia at Lord’s. Despite visibly struggling with discomfort, Bavuma carried on batting before Pat Cummins eventually got his wicket. As per the official X account of South Africa men, subsequent medical assessments have confirmed a strain that will keep him sidelined, with the Proteas medical staff set to conduct further scans to determine the full extent of the damage and his expected recovery timeline. In Bavuma’s absence, experienced spinner Keshav Maharaj has been named stand-in captain for the Zimbabwe series. Maharaj, who has previously led South Africa in the longer format when regular captains were unavailable, brings calm leadership and tactical prowess to a side now forced to regroup quickly ahead of the red-ball challenge.

This setback comes after a period of jubilation for the Proteas, who claimed an ICC trophy in the WTC final after a long 27-year wait.

Bavuma’s absence will also leave a void in the middle order, where his resilience and knack for weathering tough phases have often bailed South Africa out of tricky situations, as seen in the final against Australia.

With Zimbabwe showing steady improvement in the longest format, the contest promises to test South Africa’s bench strength and leadership depth. All eyes will now be on Maharaj’s ability to rally his troops and ensure the team stays focused despite losing its leader at a critical time.

The first Test against Zimbabwe is scheduled to begin on June 28, with both sides keen to open the new WTC cycle with a win.