Batting coach Ashwell Prince has backed the decision to shift Temba Bavuma to No 3 in the Proteas’ ODI batting order.
Bavuma, who averages 43.88 with five centuries in 50 ODIs, has spent most of his one-day career as an opener. But in the recent series against Australia, he was asked to bat first drop – a move Prince believes plays to the skipper’s strengths.
“The head coach is a massive fan of Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram, with their left-right combination and aggressive style at the top,” Prince told News24. “That allows Temba to slot in at three, and I don’t think it’s a bad position for him.”
Prince compared Bavuma’s new role to the one he was handed in the Test team.
“In the World Test Championship final we identified No 4 as a key position and moved him there because he was probably our best player in that format. Similarly, No 3 in ODIs is crucial. You could come in early if there’s a wicket, or you could be setting up the innings. Temba is well organised and mature enough to handle both situations.”
ALSO: CSA supports Subrayen after chucking accusation
Bavuma began his new assignment promisingly, scoring 65 off 74 balls in the first ODI against Australia, before adding 19 in the final match of the series.
“He’s got the experience and the leadership to judge when to put his foot down or when to build the innings,” Prince added. “I don’t think there’s a massive difference between opening and batting at three, and Temba has the qualities to make it work.”
The Proteas begin a three-match ODI series against England on 2 September.
Photo: Emily Barker/Getty Images
