Temba Bavuma back for Proteas' first Test in Kolkata, team yet to be finalised

The second Test will take place in Guwahati from 22 November.

Bavuma missed last month's series against Pakistan but made his comeback for South Africa A earlier this month, scoring 0 and 59 against India A.

His return strengthens a side that will be aiming to defend the pride of the reigning World Test Championship (WTC) title holders.

The Proteas lifted the WTC mace earlier this year after defeating Australia in the final at Lord's.

South Africa's squad will be finalised on Friday when the playing XI for the opening Test is announced. The series carries added significance, as the Proteas have not won a Test series in India since March 2000.

Bavuma's leadership and the team's renewed confidence following their WTC triumph could provide the spark needed to challenge India on home soil.

"Who is going to keep wicket? Ryan Rickelton. Just kidding. We have not finalised the XI yet. We will finalise that on the morning of the game," said Bavuma on Thursday.

"We have not finalised the team. Ordinarily, we would have, but there are all those different considerations here.

"The ball does seem to swing a bit more here in Kolkata, more than what we are accustomed to in other India conditions. But it's the sub-continent, so you want to have those spin resources in mind.

"Not a lot is going to change from a batting point of view. You want to select your best six batters. It's more from a bowling point of view. We will give ourselves the luxury of the extra day in naming the XI, after looking the wicket.

"It was nice to get some time against India A. Most of their bowlers have international experience. For me, the biggest thing was getting back on the field and proving my fitness to myself and those around him." 

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