Proteas: Temba Bavuma injury sparks furious debate

Proteas captain Temba Bavuma was visibly injured in South Africa’s match against Afghanistan at the Cricket World Cup, prompting a debate about his suitability for the upcoming semi-finals.

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The Proteas faced off against Afghanistan in their final group-stage game of the Cricket World Cup. Afghanistan got off to a solid start, batting first and reaching a total of 244 runs. When the Proteas stepped up to the crease to chase that total, there was one man in the spotlight: Proteas captain, Temba Bavuma. The captain was clearly struggling with an injury that limited his movement but he battled (and batted) through the pain.

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TEMBA BAVUMA BATS THROUGH THE PAIN

It was a difficult afternoon for Proteas captain Temba Bavuma. The all-rounder was bowled out for 23 runs but the truth of the matter is that he laboured to that total. Fans noticed early on that he appeared to be carrying an injury during his innings and his movement quickly exposed it. He continued to bat through the pain and scored three boundaries during his time at the crease.

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Despite his efforts, many fans were calling for him to not only leave the field for this game (at least before he went out!) but to also take a break from upcoming fixtures. One impassioned fan wrote, “This is actually painful to watch. Because of his poor form throughout the tournament, I think Bavuma feels like he HAS to play through this injury in order to prove himself for the semis.”

SHOULD OUR CAPTAIN PLAY THE SEMI-FINAL?

The commentary around his injury turned into debate as many viewers began to speculate whether or not Temba Bavuma should captain the side in the upcoming semi-final fixture against Australia. Outside of the injury, the captain’s form at this tournament has not been at its best. Fans were already wondering if he might be on the verge of being dropped but the injury appears to have made their minds up.

Injury or no injury,based on form #Bavuma must not play the semi

— HeadBanger (@SignalPiper) November 10, 2023

One cricket-lover wrote on X, “Bavuma must use the injury as an excuse to miss the semi-final he has been having a terrible world cup”. It remains to be seen if Bavuma will indeed retain his place in the starting line up, but if he does, one hopes he can find his finest form again.

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Would you start Temba Bavuma against Australia in the Cricket World Cup Semi-Finals?

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