Bavuma has been out of action since sustaining an elbow injury against India on the subcontinent.

The Proteas are currently in action in a three-day match against the England Lions in Canterbury.

While Bavuma has established himself in Test cricket of late, his absence will be a bowl to the visitors.

The Proteas captain, Dean Elgar, is of the view that Bavuma shouldn’t be replaced permanently, but making use of County and former Kolpak cricketers should be the way they approach things.

“They are experienced cricketers - vastly experienced in county cricket. The numbers they have put out over the last few years is something we can use to our advantage,” said the opening batter.

“They have played here for so long and it would be stupid if we don’t use them. Even if they don’t play. They are great for the changeroom, just from an information point of view.

“Having guys playing county cricket and having them do pretty well is a massive asset going into this Test series.”

The Dolphins cricketer, Khaya Zondo, has also staked a claim for the vacant position by scoring 86-runs during South Africa’s first innings in the three-day warm-up match against the England Lions in Canterbury.

The 1st Test between England and South Africa at Lords begins next week Wednesday.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport