South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has been included in the South Africa A squad for the India tour. This marks his return from a calf injury. The right-handed batter is expected to feature in the second four-day match in Bengaluru. This signals a timely comeback ahead of the senior team’s full tour of India.
Bavuma Returns to Action for India A Series
After missing the ongoing Test series in Pakistan due to injury, Temba Bavuma’s selection in South Africa A squad offers a crucial opportunity to regain match fitness. The South Africa A team will play two first-class matches in Bengaluru, beginning October 30. This schedule is part of their preparatory work. Bavuma will be available for the second fixture, set to be played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
This comeback also aligns with South Africa’s upcoming full tour of India. The tour features two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is between November 14 and December 19, 2025. The series marks South Africa’s second consecutive away tour in the subcontinent. It continues their campaign in the 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Marques Ackerman to Lead South Africa A
Top-order batter Marques Ackerman has been appointed as captain of the South Africa A squad for India, bringing leadership experience from domestic cricket. The squad includes familiar names such as Zubayr Hamza and Prenelan Subrayen. Both were part of the Test squad in Pakistan. Subrayen featured in the Lahore Test, contributing in South Africa’s narrow 93-run defeat.
Additionally, seamer Codi Yusuf, who has represented South Africa in white-ball cricket, joins the red-ball squad for the Bengaluru fixtures. These matches will run from October 30 to November 9, offering valuable exposure for emerging players.
South Africa A to Play ODIs in Rajkot
Following the red-ball series, South Africa A will play three 50-over matches against India A in Rajkot from November 13 to 19. The matches will see the return of teenage left-arm seamer Kwena Maphaka, who missed the Pakistan tour due to a hamstring injury. His inclusion strengthens the pace attack and adds depth to the squad.
Bavuma Eyes Full Fitness Ahead of India Tests
For Temba Bavuma, this South Africa A India tour serves as a stepping stone to full recovery before resuming Test captaincy duties. His return will be pivotal as South Africa prepare for another challenging subcontinental assignment. They are aiming to continue their World Test Championship title defense.
