Bavuma, Steyn out; Faf doubtful against Aussies

AB de Villiers and Quinton de Kock are likely to recover just in time for the Kingsmead battle, but Du Plessis — out with an injured index finger since the first ODI against India — may require more time to be match-fit.

Du Plessis — out with an injured index finger since the first ODI against India — may require more time to be match-fit.

In the entire season against India, the South African cricket team kept dealing with injury blows and there seems to be no end to their problems. Ahead of the first Test against Australia in Durban on March 1, the Proteas will miss the services of Temba Bavuma and Dale Steyn; even skipper Faf du Plessis is doubtful.

AB de Villiers and Quinton de Kock are likely to recover just in time for the Kingsmead battle, but Du Plessis — out with an injured index finger since the first ODI against India — may require more time to be match-fit.

Steyn made a mini comeback against India at Cape Town (2/51) but a ligament tear saw him limp out of the ground. He will miss the first two Tests against Australia.

Bavuma, who has a broken finger, is expected to be available for the second Test in Port Elizabeth.