The Proteas are back in action this week with the first ODI against Pakistan getting under way in Centurion on Friday. Andre Huisamen unpacks four things you need to know about the visitors’ tour of South Africa.
Bavuma’s first assignment
The three-match ODI series and four T20I encounters will be Temba Bavuma’s first responsibility as the new limited-overs captain of South Africa. In a historic and special moment for him and cricket in the country, Bavuma will become the first black African to lead a Proteas team on to the field as the permanent captain. His role at the top of the order will again be of high importance for a good batting performance, while his all-round decision-making will now also be needed.
IPL responsibility
Quinton de Kock, David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Anrich Nortje will all leave the Proteas camp after Sunday’s second ODI. They will exit the bio-bubble to travel to India for the start of the IPL next week Friday. They will subsequently miss the third ODI and the whole of the T20I series after an arrangement between Cricket South Africa and the BCCI that the players honour their IPL contracts and meet up with their respective teams.
READ: Bavuma: We respect IPL arrangement
New faces
As a result, the selectors have included a few new names in the two squads with Wiaan Lubbe and Lizaad Williams receiving their first call-ups to the national set-up. Lubbe will only be part of the T20I group, while Williams features in both squads. Migael Pretorius (T20I squad) and Sisanda Magala (ODI and T20I squads) are the other two uncapped players in the camp.
Anniversary Pink Day ODI
Sunday’s ODI against Pakistan at the Wanderers will be the annual Pink Day ODI. Unfortunately, no spectators will be allowed to attend this or any other matches, but fans can purchase a virtual ticket to support the breast cancer cause. The occasion will mark the 10-year anniversary of the Pink Day concept with the Proteas set to don pink kit once again to show their support. Pakistan handed the Proteas their first ever defeat on Pink Day back in 2019, while England won last year’s encounter in Johannesburg.
