South Africa walked out for the toss in the 1st ODI in Ranchi with Aiden Markram, confirming that regular captain Temba Bavuma is not playing today’s match. Markram took charge and opted to bowl first, ending speculation as soon as he appeared at the toss.
What did Markram say about Bavuma’s absence?
During the toss, Aiden Markram explained that Temba Bavuma has been rested, along with Keshav Maharaj. South Africa have chosen to rotate players for this ODI, especially with the long-term view of preparing for the 2027 World Cup.
Markram said the dressing room has “a lot of energy and fun” with the new personnel coming in for this series, and confirmed that the team structure today includes four seamers and just one spinner — Prenelan Subrayen.
South Africa’s approach for the 1st ODI
Markram revealed that dew was a major factor in choosing to bowl first, noting that batting becomes easier later in the evening. With Bavuma and Maharaj rested, South Africa entered the match with a pace-heavy combination.
India vs South Africa: Playing XIs
South Africa:
Ryan Rickelton, Quinton de Kock (w), Aiden Markram (c), Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Prenelan Subrayen, Nandre Burger, Ottneil Baartman
India:
Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Washington Sundar, KL Rahul (w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna
With Bavuma rested, Markram leads South Africa in the series opener as the teams begin their build-up towards future ODI challenges.
