Bavuma backs Ackerman to claim Proteas opening spot

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said debutant Marques Ackerman can make the Proteas opening position his own after being called up for the second Test against Australia at St George's Park. Ackerman replaced the injured Tony De Zorzi and partnered Aiden Markram at the top of the order.

Bavuma noted that South Africa have changed opening combinations frequently over the past two years while searching for stability. Ackerman, who has batted primarily at number three or in the middle order in recent domestic cricket, navigated a testing spell from Australia's pace attack on a rain-curtailed opening day.

The match carries weight for both the series and South Africa's World Test Championship ambitions. Bavuma said the team wants to keep the series alive and maintain an eye on the WTC standings.