Weakened South Africa still favourites in second Zimbabwe Test

Weakened South Africa still favourites in second Zimbabwe Test

South Africa will still be heavily favoured to beat Zimbabwe in the second Test, despite a new captain, a different spinner, and a side further from their strongest XI.

Captaincy Change

Wiaan Mulder will become the 42nd man to captain South Africa, replacing Keshav Maharaj who is out due to a groin strain.

Coach's Impact

Head coach Shukri Conrad has instilled belief in the team, which has led to their recent successes, including beating Australia in the WTC final at Lord's.

Corbin Bosch's Impressive Debut

Corbin Bosch followed his unbeaten 100 off 124 with a haul of 5 for 43 in a dozen dazzling overs in his second Test.

Family Ties

Bosch's father, Tertius, played in South Africa's return to Test cricket in 1992. Piet Botha, South Africa's bowling coach, has fond memories of playing with and against Tertius Bosch.

Second Test Details

• When: July 6 to 10, 2025
• Where: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
• What to expect: A docile pitch that tends to produce positive results.

Team Changes

• Brian Bennett is still concussed, and Prince Masvaure is expected to keep his place.
• Wiaan Mulder inherits the captaincy, with Lesego Senokwane and Prenelan Subrayen making their debuts.
• Senuran Muthusamy replaces the injured Keshav Maharaj.

Confirmed XI

• Tony de Zorzi
• Lesego Senokwane
• Wiaan Mulder (c)
• David Bedingham
• Lhuan-dre Pretorius
• Dewald Brevis
• Kyle Verreynne (wk)
• Senuran Muthusamy
• Corbin Bosch
• Prenelan Subrayen
• Codi Yusuf