South Africa Not Taking Bangladesh Lightly, Bavuma Wary of Pace Attack

South Africa Test captain Temba Bavuma has emphasised the importance of thorough preparation ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh at home. Despite the absence of young pacer Nahid Rana from the touring side and Bangladesh’s recent struggles, Bavuma has made it clear that the Proteas are not underestimating their opponents. The hosts are treating the two matches, which are part of the ICC World Test Championship, with utmost importance.

A section of the Test squad departed for South Africa late Tuesday afternoon, while the remaining members are scheduled to leave today. The two sides will face each other in the first Test of the series in Johannesburg on November 15. The second and final Test will be held in Centurion from November 23.

Even before the series gets underway, Bavuma has expressed particular caution about Bangladesh’s pace attack. Keeping in mind the pace-friendly conditions at highveld venues such as Johannesburg and Centurion, the South African captain highlighted Bangladesh’s bowling strength in an interview with SunSport.

“Considering the venues where we will be playing, the Highveld pitches should offer favourable conditions for Bangladesh’s pace bowlers. I think they have the ability and resources in terms of pace bowling.”

Reminding his teammates that no team in international cricket can be considered weak and that even the slightest lapse in concentration can put any side under pressure, the South African captain has instructed his batters to prepare thoroughly. Warning against giving their opponents any opportunity, he said,

“From a batting perspective, we need to ensure that every aspect of our preparation is in place. Mentally, we cannot leave anything to chance either. Looking at international cricket around the world, no team is an easy opponent these days. On their day, any team can put another under pressure. So, we need to make sure that we are not caught unprepared.”

Despite playing the series on home soil, the Proteas skipper does not consider Bangladesh an easy opponent by any means. Expressing his determination to complete all the necessary preparations before taking the field against Bangladesh, Bavuma added,

“When it comes to playing against Bangladesh, we will make sure that we have done the necessary preparation. However, we are not taking them lightly.”