Aiden Markram will make his Test debut next week
Image courtesy of: Zimbio
Aiden Markram will make his Test debut in the first Test between South Africa and Bangladesh at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom on September 28.
Markram, a former Under-19 captain, had been part of the Proteas’ Test squad during their recent tour of England, but he didn’t feature in any of the four Tests.
In the opening round of the Sunfoil Series, the 22-year-old, who was made captain of the Titans, led by example as he scored 119 and 87 respectively in his side’s draw with the Dolphins.
“Aiden has been knocking on the door for some time now,” South Africa’s convener of selectors Linda Zondi said. “He gained valuable insight into the Proteas team culture during the tour of England and he has shown maturity beyond his years, having captained South Africa to victory in the U-19 World Cup and as captain of the South Africa A four-day side.”
All-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo could also make his Test debut in Potchefstroom as Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and Chris Morris are all out of action with injuries.
Furthermore, fellow all-rounder Wayne Parnell is nursing a groin strain and will have to undergo a fitness test before he will be cleared to take part in the first Test.
“The inclusion of Andile and Wayne provides the necessary all-rounders to give options as concerns the balance of the starting XI,” Zondi said. “The selection of some younger players is part of the process to build for the future and at the same time maintain our hard core of experience.”
With Parnell’s participation in doubt, South Africa have called up 19-year-old all-rounder Willem Mulder as a potential replacement.
South Africa’s Test squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Theunis de Bruyn, Quinton de Kock, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Duanne Olivier, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada