Elbow Injury Sidelines Bavuma Two Months Before WTC Final

Elbow Injury Sidelines Bavuma Two Months Before WTC Final

South Africa's Test captain Temba Bavuma has suffered another setback with a recurring elbow injury ruling him out of the domestic first-class final just over two months ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June.

Bavuma was scheduled to join the Lions squad for their showdown against the Titans in Johannesburg, but failed to arrive from Cape Town earlier this week. The Lions were only informed late on Wednesday that the 34-year-old would not be available for the match, a blow to the team and fans anticipating his return to red-ball cricket.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Bavuma's injury is to his left elbow – the same one he fractured in 2022, which had previously ruled him out of South Africa’s tour to England. He aggravated the injury again last year during an ODI against Ireland in Abu Dhabi, missing the subsequent Test series against Bangladesh.

The Lions, caught off guard by the late withdrawal, remain unclear about the extent of the latest injury. Captain Dominic Hendricks had expressed excitement about Bavuma’s inclusion ahead of the final, highlighting the unexpected nature of the news.

Despite a turbulent run with injuries in recent years – including to both hamstrings – Bavuma staged an impressive comeback this past season. He notched up two centuries and four fifty-plus scores in four Tests, and also led South Africa to the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy, although he batted with heavy strapping on his elbow throughout.

Since the Champions Trophy, Bavuma has not played any competitive cricket. He did, however, join the Lions for their final league match in Bloemfontein, which was washed out by rain. The final against the Titans was expected to be his last appearance this season.

With the WTC final against Australia scheduled to begin on June 11 at Lord's, Bavuma's injury raises concerns about his availability. South Africa is expected to start preparations in mid-May, including a warm-up match against international opposition in England. While several Proteas stars are currently active in the IPL and county cricket, Bavuma had no overseas commitments and was focusing on the domestic finale as a tune-up before the WTC.

Cricket South Africa named Bavuma on their central contract list earlier this week, underscoring his continued importance to the national setup. However, the recurrence of this injury could potentially disrupt South Africa’s plans heading into their first-ever WTC final.

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