Bavuma endured a woeful T20 International series with the bat with the player scoring just three runs in the three games, while he also recorded consecutive ducks.

Bavuma will lead the team this afternoon in the first One-Day International against India, and it will be a good opportunity to find some form with the willow.

Malan, who didn’t play in the T20 Internationals, said the skipper just needs the backing of his teammates and the ODI series is the perfect opportunity for Bavuma to regain some form with the bat.

“As an opener, I can relate to that,” said Malan.

“I’ve had a couple of experiences where when you're not in form and don’t have a lot of matches under your belt. It's a quick-moving match - you have to find a way and there's a lot of pressure with the run rate.

“Sometimes it's tricky to get going and in a one-day game, it's easy to just bat, whereas in T20 cricket, you have to move, so it's difficult.

“Every player has their own role in how they approach things and the support. It's just about showing the guys some love.

“Temba is in a bit of a patch - but it can quickly change and he can find form easily before the World Cup.

“We back all the players in our camp. He is a good leader and is valuable in our space. It's just about showing him love and to perform at his best.”

The first One-Day International between India and Proteas gets under way on Thursday at 13:30.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport