South Africa head into the two-match series with confidence following their impressive 2-1 triumph over Australia in a crucial World Test Championship series. However, captain Temba Bavuma knows that the visitors from the subcontinent will present their own challenges and cannot be taken lightly.

While the immediate focus is firmly on Bangladesh, the Proteas will also be eager to maintain their momentum ahead of their next assignment against England.

South Africa have largely stuck with the squad that delivered the goods against Australia, although there are two changes to the starting XI for the opening Test at the Bullring.

Zubayr Hamza returns to the Test side following the completion of his two-year doping suspension, while experienced Western Province seamer Dane Paterson has been brought into the bowling attack at the expense of Gerald Coetzee.

Bavuma confirmed that Hamza will slot in at number three, a crucial position in the batting order that comes with its own unique demands.

Temba Bavuma and Zubayr Hamza - Cricinfo

The Proteas skipper believes the 30-year-old has done everything necessary in domestic cricket to earn another opportunity at the highest level.

“We have two main changes. Zubayr Hamza comes in at number three, while Dane Paterson also comes into the side,” said Bavuma.

“Aiden Markram opens the batting, followed by Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi, with Hamza at three and myself at four.

“Zubi has done what he can. He's gone back to domestic cricket and scored runs in all formats. From what I can see, he's become a lot more aggressive and looks to take the game on.

“That speaks to the approach we're trying to develop as a batting unit. There's an opportunity at number three, and I don't think there's a better place for him to take it than at a venue he has called home for the past couple of years.

“Hopefully, he can replicate the performances he's produced in domestic cricket. Zubi is the man who fits that number three position for us.”

Maharaj remains firmly in Proteas plans

Keshav Maharaj has once again missed out on selection, with the Proteas opting for Simon Harmer as their frontline spin option.

Dane Paterson and Kagiso Rabada - Cricinfo

However, Bavuma was quick to stress that the experienced left-arm spinner remains an important part of South Africa's plans, despite missing out on the starting XI.

“Keshav still forms part of our plans and, as I've always said, remains an integral part of this team,” Bavuma added.

“It's just where we are as a team at this point. Simon has come in and has also made it difficult to take that spot away from him. With a couple of left-handers in Bangladesh's top order, that's the direction we're going at the moment.

“However, Keshav will always be an integral part of this team.”

The first Test between South Africa and Bangladesh at the Wanderers is scheduled to get underway at 10:00 on Sunday.