Agencies
South Africa will be without their regular captain Temba Bavuma for the remainder of the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka after a freak accident in the ODI series opener led to a right thumb fracture. Keshav Maharaj will take over his role as captain for the remaining two ODIs, while a captain for the subsequent three-match T20I series is yet to be named by the selection panel.
The incident took place on Wednesday when Bavuma copped a direct blow to his thumb during the 26th over of play. He was attempting to avoid a fielder's throw-in and was struck on the right thumb. Bavuma subsequently retired hurt two overs later due to "persistent discomfort", said CSA statement.
Further scans on Bavuma's thumb 'indicated a fracture' and the 31-year-old was advised to fly back home as soon as possible to consult a specialist.
"The timeline for his return to action will be determined post doctor consultations", CSA added.
South Africa lost the first ODI by 14 runs and trail 0-1 in the three-match series with the second scheduled to be played on Saturday.