Following a lackluster World Cup performance, batter Temba Bavuma is being rested for South Africa’s upcoming home white-ball series against India. Despite his admission of not being at full fitness, Bavuma will lead the team in the two-Test series commencing on December 26.

With Aiden Markram assuming the captaincy roles for both the Twenty20 and One Day International (ODI) sides against India, speculation arises about a potential long-term dual role for him. Quinton de Kock, having retired from ODIs post-World Cup, will sit out this series to join the Melbourne Renegades in Australia’s Big Bash, focusing on T20s.

The Test squad sees new faces with batters David Bedingham and Tristan Stubbs, alongside fast bowler Nandre Burger, making their debut selections. Wicketkeeper-batter Kyle Verreynne and all-rounder Wiaan Mulder receive recalls for the Test and ODI series. However, premier fast bowler Kagiso Rabada was rested from the limited-overs games to prepare for domestic four-day cricket, leading up to the Test matches.

Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen will also miss the ODIs for the same reason, emphasizing South Africa’s strategic planning for player readiness.

“We have a near full-strength (Test) squad to pick from, and that in itself is a real boost for us,”

remarked Test coach Shukri Conrad, highlighting the team’s motivations as they enter a new ICC World Test Championship cycle.

India’s tour kicks off with three T20 matches, followed by three ODIs, culminating in the Test series starting on December 26. The cricketing action spans various South African venues, providing an exciting start to the new cycle for both teams.