ICC CWC 2023: Temba Bavuma doubtful for Semi-final after hamstring pull against Afghanistan

Temba Bavuma’s participation in the upcoming semi-final clash against Australia in Kolkata on Thursday hangs in the balance due to a hamstring injury sustained during South Africa’s final league match against Afghanistan in Ahmedabad.

A decision on whether he requires scans will be made later today. Bavuma left the field after facing nine balls in the first innings, returning four overs later, albeit visibly limping as he fulfilled his fielding duties, primarily stationed at mid-off.

Bad News for Australia – Bavuma cramping in this game.. pic.twitter.com/j3xHNFdmri

— Sammy Barnath (@Sammybarnath) November 10, 2023

Despite gingerly chasing balls and hobbling during interactions with his bowlers, Bavuma remained on the field, keeping his role as an opening batter in mind.

Had he spent significant time off-field, regulations would have allowed him to bat only after a corresponding duration or after at least five other batters had been dismissed. Bavuma, who had a top score of 35 in the World Cup before this match, was eager for runs and managed to accumulate 11 singles during his time at the crease, all at a measured pace.

In a moment of uncertainty, Bavuma and Quinton de Kock hesitated over a single, narrowly avoiding a run-out as Noor Ahmed‘s swift fielding forced a quick decision. The duo celebrated their half-century stand with an unusually prolonged hug before Bavuma prepared to face the 11th over. His innings, however, concluded with a top-edged pull straight to Rahmanullah Gurbaz at deep square leg.

If Bavuma is unable to play in the semi-final, Aiden Markram is poised to captain South Africa, a role he previously undertook when Bavuma missed matches against England and Bangladesh due to illness. Reeza Hendricks is likely to step in as the opening batter.

South Africa managed to successfully chase down 245 against Afghanistan, securing their second victory while chasing in the World Cup. Despite the eventual comfort of the win, there was a tense moment when they required 31 runs from 27 balls.

Bavuma expressed confidence after the match, reflecting on South Africa’s narrow one-wicket win against Pakistan, sandwiched between a loss to Netherlands and a defeat against India while batting second.