IND vs SA: Temba Bavuma's Performance Is Something Mark Boucher Needs To Think Of: Makhaya Ntini

Former fast bowler Makhaya Ntini believes that head coach Mark Boucher should consider Temba Bavuma’s international form. Right-handed Bavuma went on to score 61 runs at an average of 15.25 in 5 T20I innings in 2022.

South Africa is currently leading the three-match T20I series against India’s Rohit Sharma. After losing the first match in Trivandrum, the Proteas are down 1-0.

The second Twenty20 International between India and South Africa will take place on Sunday in Guwahati. India took the opening match by 8 wickets and now leads the three-match series 1-0.

In the first T20I, the South African hitters were severely outwitted by the Indian bowlers; they were reduced to 9-5 after 2.3 overs. They miraculously exceeded the 100-run threshold. While Deepak Chahar and Harshal Patel each sought out two victims, Arshdeep Singh took three wickets.

Suryakumar Yadav struck 50 off 33 balls, while KL Rahul added another half-century as India completed the total with 8 wickets remaining.

Here in Guwahati, we expect another exciting cricket match as the two teams square off. After a poor showing in the opening game, the South African team will be looking to make a comeback in the series.

Proteas have the option of Reeza Hendricks to replace Temba Bavuma: Makhaya Ntini

Ntini also suggested that the Proteas may replace Temba Bavuma with Reeza Hendricks. Hendricks became the sixth hitter in T20I history to score four half-centuries in a row earlier this year.

“It’s one of those things Mark Boucher needs to think of as he has got players around him. Since Bavuma is failing, it’s a chance for Reeza Hendricks to come back and represent South Africa, especially after he scored four half-centuries in a row,” Ntini was quoted as saying on ESPNcricinfo.

Ntini, who represented the Proteas in 101 Tests, 173 ODIs, and 10 T20Is, advised Temba Bavuma to start taking the initiative before it is too late.

“Bavuma needs to think about where he wants to go from now. He needs to make sure that everyone follows him in whatever he does as a leader. If you are not scoring runs, it becomes hard for you,” he added.

The Proteas will have a task when they hit the field for the second T20I on Sunday, October 2 at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati.

Also Read: Wasn’t Really Surprised With Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup Triumph: Sanath Jayasuriya