Temba Bavuma

Picture Credit: Twitter

South Africa have suffered a major blow in the ongoing white-ball series against Sri Lanka on Friday. Having lost the 1st ODI against the home side in a closely-fought contest by 14 runs, the visitors have now also lost their captain Temba Bavuma for remainder of the tour. The South African skipper was unfortunately on the receiving end of a freak incident during the series opener on Thursday which eventually resulted in a horrific injury for the cricketer.

Following the scans, it has been revealed that Bavuma has a fractured right thumb and will need some time to recover from the same. Cricket South Africa have also confirmed that the cricketer has been ruled out of the remaining 2 ODIs and the subsequent 3-match T20I series with Keshav Maharaj taking over the captaincy duties for remainder of the tour.

How did Temba Bavuma get injured?

It all happened in the 26th over of the second innings with South Africa looking in full control while chasing the 301-run target. Temba Bavuma had pushed the ball down the leg side with bowler Dhananjaya de Silva putting in a diving effort to prevent an easy single. The 31-year-old was back inside his crease but Wanindu Hasaranga had fired in a wild throw at the striker's end which went straight towards the South African captain.

In an effort to prevent the ball from hitting him, Bavuma stuck out his right hand and the ball unfortunately went on to hit his right thumb. He immediately threw his bat, put off his gloves and called for the physio as he looked in a lot of pain. Although he did try to continue batting post that, he eventually left the field two overs later and was retired hurt as he was really struggling with pain.

Keshav Maharaj to captain SA for remainder of tour

Following Bavuma's injury, South Africa have named Keshav Maharaj as the captain for remainder of the Sri Lanka tour. The left-arm spinner was one of the most impressive bowlers for the visitors in the 1st ODI, ending the match with figures of 10-1-30-2. The Proteas would be hoping that Maharaj can lead his side to a heroic fightback after a difficult start for the team in Sri Lanka.