Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma leaves World Cup squad in India

Proteas skipper and top order batsman Temba Bavuma has left the Cricket World Cup squad as they prep for the tournament in India.

Bavuma has reportedly jetted home due to ‘Family Reasons’ with the implication being that there is a serious issue within his circle.

Temba Bavuma leaves World Cup squad

The skipper had been an injury concern over a hamstring niggle picked up during the series against Australia.

ALSO READ: The Proteas World Cup heartache in your coffee break

However, he had recovered sufficiently to play in the series decider and make the trip to India.

The Proteas are scheduled to face Afghanistan and New Zealand on September 29 and October 2 in Thiruvananthapuram and will be led by Aiden Markram in the warmups.

ALSO READ: Proteas announce R56 million shirt sponsorship deal for World Cup

South Africa have just one reserve batsman in the squad with Reeza Hendricks set to step in for Bavuma as the opening partner to Quinton de Kock for the pair of warm-up matches.

Bavuma is not expected to miss South Africa’s opening match of the Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka in Delhi on 7 October.

ALSO READ: Proteas to face Afghanistan and New Zealand in warm-ups

Proteas injury worries

Fast bowlers Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala, who were both forced to withdraw from the competition owing to injury, are already absent for the Proteas. Magala has a left knee problem, while Nortje may have a stress fracture in his back.

ALSO READ: CSA reveal key developments for women’s cricket

Cricket South Africa are facing queries regarding the fitness issues of Magala as the fast bowler has been named to play for the Lions in the One-Day Cup despite being ruled out of the World Cup with an injury.

Some have speculated that Magala couldn’t pass a fitness test but CSA could not publicise this given their high profile commitment to dropping the fitness test as a requirement.