Why are the Proteas selectors sticking with Bavuma?

Nothing is more talked about in the South African cricket world than Temba Bavuma’s name.

The issue is that he was inactive during the South African national team’s participation in the T20 World Cup, which concluded last week.

Bavuma has only scored 70 runs in the last five matches, while other players have done better.

Victor Mpitsang, the Proteas selector, has defended Bavuma’s selection over a player like Reeza Hendricks, who has performed admirably in previous matches.

“At the end of the day, we have a captain who needs to prove himself,” Mpitsang said after announcing the names of the players who will compete in the upcoming national team matches.

“We would have liked to see Temba do a better job, but he has a role to play on the field as the national team’s leader. It is unfortunate that Reeza will not be able to play, but we must make a decision,” Mpitsang said at the start of the week.

All of this occurred after the Proteas were eliminated by Netherlands by 13 runs in the T20 World Cup. Bavuma appeared depressed after the Proteas arrived from Australia.

In response to questions about his future in the national team, Bavuma said, “Actually, I don’t think about what will happen in the World Cup that will be held in India.”

Following the departure of Mark Boucher, the Proteas have appointed Malibongwe Maketa as interim coach. Bavuma’s future as captain of the national team is dependent on him as long as he is present.

“I don’t want to talk about things that could change before the next World Cup; when things are clear, I’ll know what is going on with me in the national team; in the end, I never nominated myself to be captain.

“Enoch Nkwe is the person who has the power to make changes when he sees the need,” stressed Bavuma.

“When the team is not performing well, questions are directed to the team’s leader, which is difficult for me given the way I played, but I am satisfied with the way I led the team, and we supported each other as Proteas players throughout it all.”