South Africa has announced its playing XI for the first Test of the two-match series against Sri Lanka, with skipper Temba Bavuma making a much-anticipated return. Bavuma, who had been sidelined due to a left elbow injury, will lead the Proteas as they aim to solidify their position in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings.
The first Test begins on November 27 at Kingsmead, Durban, and concludes on December 1. The second match will take place in Port Elizabeth from December 5 to 9.
Bavuma’s return comes after he recovered from an elbow injury sustained during an ODI against Ireland last month. The injury forced him to retire hurt on 35 runs and kept him out of action, compounding a similar issue that first surfaced during a T20I tour of India in 2022.
During Bavuma’s absence, South Africa successfully swept a two-match Test series against Bangladesh under Aiden Markram’s leadership. Now, with Bavuma back in action, the Proteas will look to benefit from his leadership and batting experience as they face a strong Sri Lankan side.
South Africa has also welcomed back pacers Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee to their red-ball setup. Both bowlers last played in the format during the India tour earlier this year. Their inclusion bolsters a potent bowling attack, which already features Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj.
The pair replaces Ryan Rickelton, Senuran Muthusamy, and Dane Paterson, who were part of South Africa’s commanding 273-run victory against Bangladesh in October.
South Africa currently sits fifth on the ICC World Test Championship points table and remains in contention for a spot in the WTC Final. With four matches left, including two against Pakistan, the Proteas aim to close the gap on Sri Lanka, currently ranked third, as well as India and Australia, who occupy the top two spots.
This series will be critical for both teams, with Sri Lanka also vying for a chance to play in the WTC Final.
South Africa Playing XI
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Aiden Markram
- Tony de Zorzi
- Tristan Stubbs
- David Bedingham
- Kyle Verreynne (wk)
- Wiaan Mulder
- Marco Jansen
- Gerald Coetzee
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
Series Schedule
- First Test: Durban, November 27 – December 1
- Second Test: Port Elizabeth, December 5 – 9