The 28-year-old Markram has already played in 33 Tests for the Proteas and bats at an average of 34.05 runs.

Markram who is the only player to captain South Africa to a World Cup title was however dropped for the upcoming tour to Australia.

Maketa said Markram needs to rediscover his form in first-class cricket.

“I'm still a firm believer that, in this national group of players we currently have, Aiden can play 100 Tests,” said the coach that will be taking the Proteas down under in December.

“He's going through a dip and the decision has been made to give him a bit of a break. But it doesn't close the door at all because we know the quality he has.

“I've got no doubt he'll go back to franchise or provincial level cricket and score the runs needed to push for a spot again when the opportunity arises.

“Aiden has done it already. He was left out in late 2020, went down to franchise cricket and made tons of runs, pushing himself back into contention.

“That mental break sometimes really helps you to have your blueprint dismantled. You go back and remind yourself how you're actually scoring runs. And any player will find that answer better away from the glare of international cricket.”

The 1st Test between Australia and the Proteas will get underway on 17 December in Brisbane.

Proteas Test squad against Australia - Dean Elgar (captain, Titans), Temba Bavuma (Lions), Gerald Coetzee (ITEC Knights), Theunis de Bruyn (Titans), Sarel Erwee (Dolphins), Simon Harmer (Titans), Marco Jansen (Warriors), Heinrich Klaasen (Titans), Keshav Maharaj (Dolphins), Lungi Ngidi (Titans), Anrich Nortje (Warriors), Kagiso Rabada (Imperial Lions), Glenton Stuurman (Warriors), Rassie van der Dussen (Lions), Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper, Western Province), Khaya Zondo (Dolphins). 

Morgan Piek OFM Sport