South Africa captain Temba Bavuma will miss the opening ODI against Pakistan in Paarl on Tuesday as part of a strategic move to manage his workload ahead of the crucial two-Test series.
Aiden Markram has been named stand-in captain for the first match, with Bavuma expected to return for the remainder of the series.
The decision underlines South Africa’s efforts to balance players’ workload and preparation as they prepare for upcoming major tournaments, including the 2025 Champions Trophy and the all-important Test series.
The red-ball series holds significant importance as South Africa aim to secure a place in the World Test Championship final.
Eight players from South Africa’s ODI team, including Bavuma, Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada, were part of the recent 2-0 Test series triumph over Sri Lanka .
The team management remains particularly cautious in managing their fast bowlers due to ongoing injury concerns in the pace department.
Several key players are unavailable or recovering from injuries.
Wiaan Mulder is recovering from a broken finger and hopes to return for the Boxing Day Test. Lungi Ngidi will be sidelined until January with a hip injury.
Gerald Coetzee is out with a groin problem and is also expected to return in January. Nandre Burger will miss the entire season with a stress fracture in his lower back.
Anrich Nortje is unavailable due to a broken toe and has withdrawn from red cricket to focus on overcoming recurring injuries.
Proteas captain Temba Bavuma has addressed the team’s strategy amid injury concerns.
“Not everyone we would normally call on is around because of injuries,” Bavuma said.
“We have bowlers in the squad, so we would like to give players opportunities, rest some players and try to balance things as best we can.”
