Markram misses training but set to play Gqeberha Test
Aiden Markram resisted Australia's attack in the first Test • Gallo Images/Getty Images
Aiden Markram, South Africa's best batter from the Durban Test, did not travel with the squad from Durban to Gqeberha after the first match and was not at either of their training sessions at St George's Park. But he will be in attendance on Saturday and is expected to play the second match.
Markram, who returned home for personal reasons, is due to arrive in the city on Friday night. He will more than likely attend optional training on Saturday and is set to be named in the starting XI for the second Test, which begins on Sunday.
In his absence, South Africa trained with a slip cordon of David Bedingham, Simon Harmer (who was in Markram's place at second slip), Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen. Ryan Rickelton, who is confirmed as the designated gloveman in place of Kyle Verreynne, did his drills with a floppy hat on while Verryenne assisted with providing throwdowns.
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Rickleton, for the second day in succession, held a long wicket-keeping training session before an equally long batting session. Matthew Breetzke and Marques Ackerman, who are set to replace Rickelton, who will move down the order and Tristan Stubbs, who has been dropped, faced Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Mulder and Jansen in what appears to be South Africa's first-choice attack.
All indications are that they will only play one spinner but Harmer's positioning at second slip may not be a sign he will be preferred over Keshav Maharaj. South Africa also have a third option in Senuran Muthusamy.
More pressingly, South African fans will be anxious to know that Markram is available, especially after he received treatment on his shoulder in the first Test. That was explained as tightness which was treated on-field. He also returned home from the Hundred early and missed the first ODI for personal reasons. It is understood that Markram will be fully available for this match and, barring any injury, beyond.
Firdose Moonda is Cricinfo's senior correspondent for Africa and women's cricket
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