Temba Bavuma tests his hamstring in the optional training session in South Africa.

In the current ICC Cricket World Cup, South Africa and Australia will play in the second semi-final. On November 16, the explosive match will take place in Kolkata’s renowned Eden Gardens. At the same time, the opening knockout match between New Zealand and India is set to take place at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium one day earlier. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma participated in a longer-than-30-minute optional training session prior to the crucial match.

The 33-year-old batsman in Kolkata completed a few circuits around the outfield. After that, he performed a few fitness exercises as directed by strength and conditioning coach Runeshan Moodley and team physiotherapist Sizwe Hadebe.

After that, the leadoff hitter resumed his shuttle runs, increasing his pace with each forward and backward loop. Even though he occasionally stooped and put his hands by his sides, he didn’t appear uncomfortable when jogging. It was also noticed that the leadoff hitter had some strapping on his leg.

Later in the workout, he was observed conversing with coach Rob Walter after shadow-batting with a stump. After observing Rassie van der Dussen’s batting, he went to the net and batted with a stump. Even so, the first hitter advanced to knock a few balls down the field.

“During the past 72 hours, there have been positive, objective indicators of improvement with Temba’s right hamstring strain. The South African medical team told ESPNcricinfo, “We will continuously assess his progress through the management plan over the next few days to give him the best chance to play on Thursday.”

Temba Bavuma was working on Monday as “part of the rehabilitation strategies of the recovery plan,” not for a fitness test, the medical team also made clear.