Kolkata Test: Captain Temba Bavuma joins South Africa squad
What's the story
South Africa's captain, Temba Bavuma, has joined the national team in Kolkata ahead of their first Test match against India. The game is scheduled to begin at Eden Gardens on Friday. Bavuma was the last player to join the senior squad after recently playing for South Africa 'A' in an unofficial Test series against India A in Bengaluru. Here are further details.
Team assembly
Bavuma arrives in Kolkata
Bavuma, along with another player and some officials, arrived from Bengaluru on Monday morning. The team's local manager confirmed that most of the squad, including head coach Shukri Conrad and players Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, had already checked in on Sunday. This means South Africa now has its full contingent in Kolkata for the upcoming match against India.
Comeback
Bavuma's return to action
Bavuma had missed the start of South Africa's World Test Championship (WTC) campaign in Pakistan due to a calf strain. However, he made his return to competitive action for the 'A' team. Under Marques Ackerman's captaincy, Bavuma scored an impressive 59 off 101 balls in the second innings of the second unofficial Test in Bengaluru. His performance helped his team secure a five-wicket win and level the series 1-1.
Team update
Hamza also joins the main team
Zubayr Hamza, another player from the 'A' squad, has also joined the main team. Hamza is known for his ability to handle spin and made significant contributions in both matches of the series. He scored a commendable 77 in the second innings of the final game at the Centre of Excellence, further strengthening South Africa's lineup ahead of their clash with India.
Player arrivals
Indian team arrives from Australia
On the Indian side, the first batch of players including captain Shubman Gill, head coach Gautam Gambhir, pacer Jasprit Bumrah, and all-rounders Washington Sundar and Axar Patel arrived in Kolkata late on Sunday. They were returning from a limited-overs tour of Australia. The remaining members of the squad including Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Dhruv Jurel are expected to check in throughout the day.
Upcoming series
Last Test series of the year for both teams
The upcoming series against South Africa will be India's final red-ball assignment of the year. Their next Test match is scheduled for June 2026 against Afghanistan. In 2026, India will also go on two away tours—to Sri Lanka and New Zealand later in the year. For reigning World Test champions South Africa, this too will be their last Test series of the year with their next red-ball assignment scheduled for September next year.