South Africa captain Temba Bavuma expects to be fit to lead the side at the Twenty20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates as he continues to recover from a thumb injury.
The top-order batsman admits he is not 100% fit, but believes he will be ready for South Africa’s opening game against Australia on Oct. 23.
"I started batting a bit yesterday, just to feel it out," Bavuma told reporters on Sunday. "According to the medical team, everything is still on schedule. I am quite happy with where it's at. Everyone is happy with the progress thus far."
Bavuma will be the first black African captain for South Africa at a World Cup.
He admits there is a mix of anxiety and excitement among the players, especially given the team’s past failings at major tournaments that have earned them a "choker" tag and a reputation for not being able to pull through in big moments.
"Looking at the position I am in, I acknowledge the responsibility when leaving South African shores," he said.
{{/usCountry}}"Looking at the position I am in, I acknowledge the responsibility when leaving South African shores," he said.
{{/usCountry}}"And the thinking that when you come back to South Africa, things could be different. Your life could be different.
"From a team point of view, it's excitement and the anxiety of experiencing something you haven't come across. But I think it's more excitement at the moment.
"I don't harp on a lot about being a Black African but it is quite significant, from all angles. Thinking about it now, it adds to the pressure that is already there.
"But it's also a privilege that I believe I've been blessed to have. If the opportunity is there, and the team plays accordingly, we'd like to do something special for the country."