Bavuma expects Aussies to be a little skittish
THE Steve Smith and David Warner absences will hurt Australia in its Test future, according to South African batsman Temba Bavuma.
Australia faces Bangladesh before hosting India on home soil next summer with an unbalanced, new-look side after the chaotic tour of South AfriTHE ca, with Mitch Starc the only obvious inclusion after a barren final Test.
Smith and Warner were banned for a year while opener Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months after the third Test ball-tampering plot was discovered.
Their three batting inclusions capitulated in the fourth Test at The Wanderers, collectively making just 12 runs and lasting 41 balls, in response to South Africa’s first-innings total of 488.
A fatigued Australian attack looks ready to fly home – perhaps unsurprising after the wild and “draining” week – with more in The Wanderers’ wicket than their bowling figures suggested.
Bavuma delivered the dagger blow to the inexperienced and fragile Australians by reaching 95 not out in his patient first innings.
Australia was left chasing its tail thereafter at The Wanderers.
The middle-order batter conceded they had the psychological edge.
“It would be crazy to think there wouldn’t be an effect on the team,” Bavuma said.
“They’ve lost people who have played a pivotal role in their success as a team.
“That’s probably going to show within the next couple of games as they try to fill the void left by those players.
“In saying that, they’re still a team that has enough firepower and skill to be more than competitive.”