Temba Bavuma, Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee return to Proteas Test squad

By Nasri Alexander
19th November 2024

Temba Bavuma has recovered from his elbow injury and will lead the Proteas in the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, starting in Durban on 27 November.

Bavuma missed the two matches in Bangladesh which the Proteas won emphatically under the leadership of Aiden Markram to stay on course for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

The 14-man squad also sees the return of all-rounder Marco Jansen and fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, who rejoin the Test set-up for the first time since the home series against India last summer.

Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson and all-rounder Wiaan Mulder complete the pace attack with Lungi Ngidi ruled out for the remainder of the summer due to injury.

Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthusamy have been named as the two frontline spinners for the series.

Proteas Test coach Shukri Conrad said: "It's great to have Temba back leading the side after his recovery. His leadership and skill are invaluable to the team.

"I'd also like to thank Aiden for stepping up and captaining the side so successfully during the Bangladesh series.

"It's also pleasing to welcome back Marco and Gerald to the Test side. Both have worked incredibly hard during their conditioning programmes, and it's great to see them back in the fold, ready to contribute to the team."

The second Test of the series will be played at St George's Park in Gqeberha from 5 December with the Proteas needing a series victory to stay in contention in the WTC.

Conrad's charges will then host Pakistan in the Boxing Day and New Year's matches to conclude their games in the current cycle.

"We are excited to be back on home soil after being on the road for some time," the head coach said. "It's always a great feeling to play in front of our supporters and deliver our best cricket at home.

"We've picked the strongest possible side to ensure we stay competitive and keep our hopes alive for a place in the World Test Championship Final."

Proteas Test squad: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne.