“The respect that the guys have for him (Temba Bavuma) is on another level,” said Proteas batsman, Aiden Markram, ahead of the first ODI between South Africa and Pakistan at the SuperSport Park Stadium in Centurion. 

South Africa’s preparations, with Temba Bavuma taking over as white-ball captain, have been underway. “(It’s been) amazing to see Temba operate this week,” said Markram. Comparing Bavuma’s style of captaincy with former captain, Quinton de Kock, Markram explained that Bavuma prefers “a lot of planning,” while de Kock is a “free-spirited captain, and makes plans on the field.” 

Given that the next 50-over World Cup is slated for 2023, Markram believes, “Every series is important in the build up to a World Cup.” With each passing series, Markram is confident the team will be ready by the next World Cup. “When 2023 comes, each person will know what his role is,” said Markram. 

In the discussions that the Proteas team management have had so far, there has been an emphasis on a “positive approach,” similar to the kind India and England displayed over the past week. “Their brand of cricket works and needs to be done,” Markram said. “It’s slightly different for our players. It is a work in progress, it might take some time,” continued Markram. 

Markram said he had not expected to be a part of this limited-overs series against Pakistan. “I understand my white-ball game for the Proteas hasn’t been where I want it to be. I’m certainly grateful to be here,” said Markram. In conversations with Bavuma and Head Coach, Mark Boucher, Markram has been asked to be versatile. Markram is “comfortable (batting) anywhere in the top 4.” 

The ultimate objective of this series for the Proteas, keeping in mind the 2023 World Cup, is to “find ways to win and try to instil that culture in the ODI team.” 

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