Temba Bavuma Rested for the 2nd ODI Against Australia as Proteas Rotate Squad
South Africa’s skipper, Temba Bavuma, will not feature in the second ODI against Australia as part of careful workload management.
The 33-year-old, who has been South Africa’s key figure with the bat and the leadership role, has been given a short break despite showing no discomfort during the series opener.
The decision stems from a hamstring issue he picked up during the World Test Championship Final earlier this year. Medical staff recommended rest to avoid aggravation, ensuring he stays fully fit for the crucial matches ahead.
JUST IN: Temba Bavuma has been rested for the second ODI against Australia
This decision is part of his workload management, as he recovered from a hamstring strain which he sustained during the WTC Final pic.twitter.com/tccs7YKF9d
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 22, 2025
With Bavuma on the sidelines, Aiden Markram has been handed the captaincy. Youngster Tony de Zorzi slots into the playing XI, adding fresh energy to the top order.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the update in a statement: “Bavuma will be available to lead the team in the third ODI on Sunday.”
That assurance means South Africa fans can breathe easy, knowing their leader is expected to return swiftly.
The timing of the move is no coincidence. South Africa hammered Australia in the first ODI, storming to a 98-run win. Sitting 1–0 up in the three-match series, they now have the luxury of experimenting without losing momentum.
The Proteas, brimming with confidence, will eye another commanding display. In the opener, they piled up 297 runs before dismantling the Aussies for 198, with Keshav Maharaj’s five-for stealing the spotlight.
Momentum is clearly with the home side. Another win here would secure the series with a match to spare – the perfect statement ahead of the Cricket World Cup looming on the horizon.
For Australia, this fixture is a chance at redemption. Their middle-order woes were glaring in the first game.
After openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh laid a decent platform, the engine room, featuring Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, and Aaron Hardie, faltered against South Africa’s relentless bowling.
The tourists have shuffled their pack. Xavier Bartlett replaces Ben Dwarshuis, as Australia hope for a sharper display to keep the series alive.
South Africa is in the driver’s seat. Australia is under pressure. And in the middle of it all, Temba Bavuma’s brief absence adds intrigue to an already fascinating series.
The second ODI promises intensity, pride, and perhaps another twist in this classic cricketing rivalry.
