With a new captain at the helm, three debutants in the ranks, and several big names rested, World Test Champions South Africa begin their title defence with a two-Test series against neighbours Zimbabwe, starting Saturday in Bulawayo.
Regular captain Temba Bavuma is unavailable after sustaining a hamstring strain during the World Test Championship Final. In his absence, Keshav Maharaj — South Africa’s white-ball skipper — steps in to lead the Test team, becoming one of the rare players to captain the country across all three formats.
It’s a privilege. I’m a very laid-back captain. I’m always open to advice, but I also allow the bowlers to come up with their own plans because I believe in growth. If I need to put my foot down, I will. I just want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable so that they can execute their skill best on the field.
The Proteas will miss key players like Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Ryan Rickelton, who have all been rested. Only four members of the XI that played the WTC Final against Australia at Lord’s remain in this squad. However, the rotation gives South Africa a chance to test its bench strength — a strategy they hope will pay off in the long run.
In addition to leading the side, Maharaj is just one wicket away from becoming the first South African spinner to reach 200 Test wickets — a landmark achievement that could add another layer to his legacy. Maharaj confirmed three debutants for the opening Test: Codi Yusuf, Dewald Brevis, and Lhuan-dre Pretorius.
It’s an exciting time. You know Codi’s been setting the world alight over the last season and a half in all formats of the game.
The highly anticipated Test debut of 21-year-old batting prodigy Dewald Brevis adds a spark to the middle order. Wiaan Mulder, impressive in the second innings of the WTC Final, is set to bat at No.3, while David Bedingham slots in at four. Pretorius comes in at five, and Brevis will occupy the No.6 slot.
South Africa’s bowling attack features Corbin Bosch, debutant Codi Yusuf, left-armer Kwena Maphaka, and Maharaj himself. Kyle Verreynne will take up wicketkeeping duties.
South Africa’s bowling attack features Corbin Bosch, debutant Codi Yusuf, left-armer Kwena Maphaka, and Maharaj himself. Kyle Verreynne will take up wicketkeeping duties.
Currently ranked No.1 in the country following the latest trials, Maharaj has made a strategic decision to skip the upcoming ISSF World Cup in Germany — after discussions with coach Neha Chavan at Gun For Glory — to focus on long-term goals. His training is now geared towards peak performance at the World Championship and the 16th Asian Championship in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, scheduled from August 16 to 30.
Zimbabwe, led by Craig Ervine, enter the series hoping to build on the positives from their recent landmark Test in England. However, the side is missing key players — Richard Ngarava and Ben Curran due to injury and Victor Nyauchi for tactical reasons.
Fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani, recently signed by IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru, will spearhead the attack, supported by recalled pacer Trevor Gwandu and leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa. Uncapped pacer Kundai Matigimu also finds a place in the squad.
The pitch at Queens Sports Club is typically slow and can test both batters and bowlers. Since 2023, spinners have taken 85 wickets at 29.62, while seamers have accounted for 71 at 34.74 — suggesting a balanced contest ahead.
Probable XIs South Africa: Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Wiaan Mulder, David Bedingham, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj (capt), Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Prince Masvaure, Nick Welch, Sean Williams, Craig Ervine (capt), Wessly Madhevere, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Tanaka Chivanga, Blessing Muzarabani
