South Africa Test captain Temba Bavuma is poised to make his comeback from a calf injury during the upcoming South Africa A tour of India later this month. Bavuma, who missed the Test series in Pakistan and was also left out of the ODI squad to aid his recovery, will be available for the second of two four-day matches in Bengaluru. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced the South Africa A squads for the multi-format tour, which will feature two first-class matches and three one-day games. The tour will serve as crucial preparation for Bavuma ahead of the Test series against India in mid-November.

Marques Ackerman to lead to South Africa A squads with inclusion of Temba Bavuma

Marques Ackerman has been appointed captain of both the four-day and one-day squads for the India tour. Bavuma’s inclusion for the second first-class game marks a significant step in his return-to-play program, as South Africa prepare to defend their World Test Championship (WTC) title.

The four-day fixtures will be played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru from October 30 to November 9, while the one-day matches will take place at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot from November 13 to 19. The red-ball squad features Zubayr Hamza and Prenelan Subrayen, who are currently touring Pakistan, while seamer Codi Yusuf has been rewarded for his white-ball performances. Western Province spinner Kyle Simmonds has received his maiden SA A call-up, while Lions all-rounder Delano Potgieter joins the 50-over setup for the first time. The squad will depart from Johannesburg on October 25, looking to build on their recent outing against New Zealand A, where they won the one-day series 2-1 but lost the four-day leg 0-1. Bavuma’s return, combined with the presence of promising domestic performers, adds strength and experience to the touring contingent.

South Africa A head coach Wandile Gwavu confident ahead of India challenge

South Africa A head coach Wandile Gwavu expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to compete in India, emphasizing the value of playing in subcontinent conditions. “We’re looking forward to this tour and are eager to take on the challenge of competing against India in their own backyard. Our ability to play and bowl spin has improved significantly over the years, so playing in the subcontinent, which will be a first for many of the players, will be a good test,” Gwavu said.

He highlighted the importance of adaptability and mental toughness when facing the challenges of Indian pitches, noting that the experience gained would be vital for players pushing for senior team selection. “It’s been a while since South Africa A last toured India, and playing there always demands adaptability. Gaining experience on subcontinent surfaces, especially in the red-ball format, will be invaluable for our players as we continue to build towards future tours and potential Proteas opportunities.” The series promises to be a valuable proving ground for South Africa’s next generation, with Bavuma’s return symbolizing both leadership stability and renewed focus ahead of their upcoming Test assignment in India.

South Africa A Four-Day squad against India A:

Marques Ackerman (captain), Temba Bavuma*, Okuhle Cele, Zubayr Hamza, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tshepo Moreki, Mihlali Mpongwana, Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Simmonds, Tsepo Ndwandwa, Jason Smith, Tiaan van Vuuren, Codi Yusuf.

*Available for the second match only

South Africa A One-Day squad against India A:

Marques Ackerman (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Bjorn Fortuin, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Kwena Maphaka, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Tshepo Moreki, Mihlali Mpongwana, Nqaba Peter, Delano Potgieter, Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile, Jason Smith, Codi Yusuf.