On Tuesday, the Proteas flew out to the subcontinent to officially start their World Test Championship title defence. In addition to the Tests, they will also compete in a three-match T20 International series and a three-match One-Day International series.

The Proteas are without the services of their inspirational captain, Temba Bavuma, who is sidelined through injury. His absence leaves a void in the number three spot in the batting line-up.

Dewald Brevis. Photo: Morgan Piek

Brevis (22), known for his big-hitting, has only played in two Tests before, earlier this year in the two-Test series against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. In both matches at the Queens Sports Club, Brevis batted lower down the order at number six.

In the past, Tristan Stubbs has also batted at three, which coach Shukri Conrad saw as the young player’s natural position. More recently, however, Bavuma had cemented the role.

Markram said Brevis is one of the options for the key position in Bavuma’s absence and felt the conditions could suit the destructive batter.

“He’d definitely be an option, yes, especially with the way he plays. If the conditions are going to be tricky, he can quickly change the momentum of the game by doing what he does best,” said Markram.

“I would think he’ll definitely be in consideration. But you also have guys like Tony de Zorzi returning. He played incredibly well in Bangladesh, scoring big runs in challenging conditions.

“It’s not necessarily a straight swap, but I’m very sure Brevis will be part of the conversation.”

Temba Bavuma. Photo: Morgan Piek

Markram, who captained the Proteas during their tour of Bangladesh, added that Bavuma’s absence is a blow, but it’s not unfamiliar territory. As captain, he will rely on the leadership group within the squad.

“It feels pretty similar to how things have unfolded in the past. Whenever Temba is unfortunately not playing, I’m given the opportunity to lead the side, so it feels like a familiar scenario.“ 

“For me personally, because it’s Test cricket, I’m naturally eager to win, but even more so in red-ball cricket. You keep your leadership group, senior players, and coaching staff close, and even though Temba isn’t on tour, we still bounce ideas off him and hope to make a positive impact for the team.”

The 1st Test in Lahore will get underway on Sunday at 7:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek