South Africa’s Zimbabwe Tests start June 28: Bavuma out, Maharaj leads fresh squad

South Africa’s upcoming Test series against Zimbabwe, starting June 28, will see a fresh squad led by Keshav Maharaj after captain Temba Bavuma was sidelined due to a hamstring injury.

Bavuma, who led South Africa to the World Test Championship title, sustained the injury on Day 3 of the final against Australia at Lord's while batting. This marks his third hamstring injury in less than two years, with previous strains during the 2023 ODI World Cup and the Boxing Day Test against India.

"Bavuma will miss the Zimbabwe tour due to a hamstring strain," Cricket South Africa announced on June 20.

In his absence, Maharaj has been named captain for the two-Test series, which will be played at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, with the first Test starting June 28 and the second on July 6.

The squad also features five uncapped players as South Africa rests several all-format regulars, including Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada, signaling a strategic rotation ahead of future fixtures.

"This is the third hamstring injury Bavuma has suffered in less than two years," highlighting ongoing fitness concerns for the skipper.

The series offers an opportunity for new talent to emerge under Maharaj’s leadership while maintaining South Africa’s competitive edge in Test cricket.

The fresh squad approach reflects Cricket South Africa’s intent to manage player workloads and build depth in the team ahead of the international calendar.

South Africa’s Test series against Zimbabwe starts June 28 with Keshav Maharaj leading a fresh squad after captain Temba Bavuma was ruled out due to a recurring hamstring injury. The series features five uncapped players as several senior players rest, with matches in Bulawayo on June 28 and July 6.