Janneman Malan, a South African batsman, supported Temba Bavuma on Wednesday to regain his form in the three-match ODI series against India that gets underway on Thursday.
For his dismal performance with the bat in the three-match T20 International series that the visitors lost 1-2, Bavuma has come under criticism. Malan, though, thinks that the ODI series is the ideal setting for Bavuma to find his groove before the T20 World Cup, which begins later this month in Australia.
In a virtual press conference held prior to the series opener, Malan said, “As an opener, I can relate to that. I had a couple of experiences where when you’re not in form or (don’t have) a lot of matches under your belt…a it’s quick-moving match…you have to find a way, and there’s a lot of pressure with the run rate.”
Bavuma, who led South Africa in the T20I series after returning from injury, struggled with the bat, scoring zero, zero, and three runs in the three games. Bavuma must quickly score some runs to maintain his place in the starting eleven while Reeza Hendricks is vying for a berth in the top-order.
“Each participant plays a unique role in how they handle situations and receive assistance. Simply offering the lads some love is all that’s required, Malan added.
Temba is going through a rough spell right now, but things may change fast and he can get back in shape before the World Cup.
We support every player on our team; he is a capable leader and an asset to us. It just requires that he provide his best effort and be loved.