Proteas ODI skipper Bavuma recalled to T20 squad after rich vein of batting form

At JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom

Proteas ODI skipper Temba Bavuma said he'll be involved in the forthcoming T20 series against the West Indies in a playing capacity after sitting out Tuesday's third ODI.

Bavuma missed the game after experiencing hamstring discomfort during his 144 in the second ODI that SA lost in East London.

As Bavuma sat out the game, he watched Aiden Markram lead the side to a four-wicket win that came on the back of Heinrich Klaasen's explosive 119 not-out off 61 balls.

MATCH REPORT | Stunning Heinrich Klaasen century powers Proteas to victory in 3rd West Indies ODI

Bavuma was initially dropped from the T20 team and also relinquished the captaincy from that perspective, but said he'll be working hard on his fitness to be ready for the two Netherlands ODIs.

The T20 series against the West Indies starts with two games at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Saturday and Sunday, with the series wrapping up at the Wanderers on Tuesday.

"I'll be involved in the T20 series as the coach has added me to the squad," Bavuma said.

"I'll be around for the series, but the important part for me is to work even harder on my fitness so that I'm more than ready for the Netherlands games.

"From my side with the hamstring, the decision was from a precautionary point of view."

Bavuma said Klaasen's innings was fruition of them walking the talk in terms of playing an attacking, but measured game.

In their 2022/23 home ODI summer, the Proteas haven't been scared of scoring quickly, even though it hasn't come with the requisite win success.

The second ODI against the West Indies was an example of this, as the Proteas kept up with the run-rate, but continued to lose wickets.

SCORECARD | 3rd ODI: Proteas v West Indies

That seemed to be the