South Africa’s Skipper Bavuma Eager for ODI Series Against Australia
South Africa captain Temba Bavuma is looking forward to returning to One Day International cricket as his team prepares to face Australia in the first ODI in Durban on September 24.
The three-match ODI series is an important part of South Africa’s preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Bavuma said the team is determined to improve its ODI performances and use the series to understand how well the squad is progressing ahead of the major tournament.
Several experienced players are returning to the South African ODI squad for the series. The group includes Aiden Markram, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, David Miller, Corbin Bosch, Quinton de Kock and Bavuma.
For Bavuma, the opening match will be particularly significant because he has not played an ODI since December 2025. The South African captain said he is happy to be back with the team and eager to contribute on the field.
“It’s been a long time since I’ve played ODIs, so being back with the team feels great,” Bavuma said. He also expressed his excitement about returning to the field and helping the team achieve its goals.
South Africa have been working on building a strong ODI combination as they look ahead to the 2027 World Cup. Bavuma said the matches against Australia will give the team an opportunity to measure its progress and identify areas that still need improvement.
The captain also pointed out that while the team has already identified several key players, there is still an opportunity for younger or less experienced players to make their mark. The series could therefore help South Africa strengthen its squad and create more options before the World Cup.
Bavuma is expected to bat in the top three, although his exact position could depend on how the opening combination involving Quinton de Kock and the other top-order batters is arranged.
The series will also give South Africa an opportunity to test its players against a strong Australian side. The matches are expected to provide valuable experience in different conditions and help both teams assess their preparations for future international competitions.
After the ODI series, South Africa and Australia will turn their attention to Test cricket. The upcoming Test matches will be closely watched, particularly because they will be the first meetings between the teams in the format since South Africa’s memorable victory at Lord’s in 2025.
Bavuma said the team is currently focused on the ODI series and will deal with the Test matches when the time comes.
The three ODIs will be played in Durban, Johannesburg and Potchefstroom. The teams will then compete in a three-Test series at venues across South Africa.
With the 2027 World Cup approaching, South Africa will be looking to use the ODI series to develop consistency, strengthen its squad and build confidence. Bavuma’s return adds experience to a team hoping to make progress in the 50-over format.