FILE. Temba Bavuma makes a surprising return to T20 cricket by joining the Ghent Gladiators in Belgium’s European T20 Premier League during his offseason, balancing his commitments to Test and ODI cricket. Picture: Michael Sherman/IOL
Image: Michael Sherman/IOL
It’s been a while since Temba Bavuma has played a T20 match at any level, but the Proteas Test and ODI skipper will be heading to Belgium to play the shortest format of the game.
The last time played a T20 game for the Proteas was in September 2023, and he has not played a single T20 match at any level since April 2024.
It seemed his career in the shortest format had already come to an end, especially since he’s gone unsold in the last two editions of the SA20.
Now, Bavuma will be plying his trade in the European T20 Premier League in Belgium which will not clash with his Proteas commitments.
“It is the offseason for me,” Bavuma said.
“Since it does not clash with any ODI or Test commitments, I’m happy to indulge. My priority will always be Test and ODI cricket for as long as I hold the responsibility of captain.”
Bavuma’s new calling will see him don the colours of the Ghent Gladiators (GG).
There he will share a dressing room with fellow South Africans Duan Jansen and Dwaine Pretorius.
Bavuma last represented South Africa in their ODI series against hosts India in December.
Since then Bavuma had a bit of break, before turning out for the Lions in March in the CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge.
In four knocks, Bavuma amassed 125 runs at an average of 41.
Former England international Jonathan Trott will coach GG, and it will be a partnership Bavuma is looking forward to.
“It is always good experience to share knowledge with other experienced players,” Bavuma told SportsBoom.co.za.
“It will be nice to share the field with guys I haven’t played with in a while like Dwaine Pretorius. I’m also looking forward to working with Jonathan Trott.”