Proteas Revamp Batting Order, Mulder to Bat at Number Three

The South African squad, current titleholders of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), has revealed its lineup for the initial match against Zimbabwe. This game is set to take place at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, spanning from June 28 to July 2.

The team includes three new players, namely Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, and Codi Yusuf. Several key players are being rested, such as Aiden Markram, recognized as Player of the WTC final, and leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada. Regular captain Temba Bavuma is still recovering from a hamstring injury.

Bavuma sustained the injury on the third day of the Ultimate Test. He continued playing until the tea break, after which medical advice led to his withdrawal from further batting.

Following South Africa’s significant victory, Bavuma disclosed that he disregarded the medical team’s recommendations to avoid leaving the field during a crucial phase, which worsened his condition.

In Bavuma’s absence, veteran spinner Keshav Maharaj will lead the youthful South African team. Corbin Bosch and Kwena Mapakha, each with only one Test appearance, are also included.

Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke are slated to open the batting for the Proteas. Wiaan Mulder will follow, given another opportunity to bat at number three after the crucial Test.

David Bedingham has been moved up to the number four position. Debutants Pretorius and Brevis, along with wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, will constitute South Africa’s middle order.

The team’s revamped pace attack consists of Bosch, Yusuf, and Maphaka, with Maharaj providing the spin option.

In summary, the recently announced South Africa playing XI includes only four players who participated in their historic WTC final lineup.

South Africa’s Playing XI for first Test against Zimbabwe:

  • Tony de Zorzi
  • Matthew Breetzke
  • Wiaan Mulder
  • David Bedingham
  • Lhuan-dré Pretorius
  • Dewald Brevis
  • Kyle Verreynne
  • Corbin Bosch
  • Keshav Maharaj (C)
  • Codi Yusuf
  • Kwena Maphaka