(Image Source: AFP)
[Saba Sports News] During a practice session at Wankhede Stadium, Gerald Coetzee displayed his batting prowess, hitting a powerful shot that cleared the practice nets and traveled towards the Sachin Tendulkar Stand. The ball’s trajectory through Mumbai’s humid air was satisfying to watch, suggesting it was destined to land on or near the pitch prepared for the upcoming World Cup match against Bangladesh.
Aiden Markram, who could captain South Africa again if Temba Bavuma is unavailable due to stomach trouble, observed the pitch closely. Despite his attention on the pitch, he effortlessly caught the ball struck by Coetzee.
Markram, no stranger to international captaincy, admitted that the circumstances leading to his captaincy in the previous game were unfortunate, as Bavuma had to withdraw less than 10 minutes before the toss. Bavuma’s availability for the next game was uncertain, but Markram mentioned that he was improving and a final decision would be made on the day of the match.
Bavuma was seen in the nets, initially helping Tabraiz Shamsi work on his line to left-handed batsmen before taking a turn at batting without wearing pads.
Despite the heat and humidity in Mumbai, nine of South Africa’s 15 players participated in the optional practice session, demonstrating their commitment to improving their skills and mental readiness.
Bangladesh has a decent record against South Africa in World Cup matches, winning half of the four encounters between the two teams. South Africa, having recently defeated Sri Lanka, Australia, and England, is determined to secure a spot in the semifinals.