Will Cracknell examines the importance of Temba Bavuma to South Africa’s ODI side, and to the wider goals of cricket in the country.

South Africa’s Temba Bavuma would undoubtedly have concurred with the musing of William Blake after Tuesday’s majestic innings against England.

The Cape Town-born batsman – for the time being at least – appears to have escaped the nebulous squall of Test match ostracism for the limpid waters of ODI selection security.

How Bavuma a month ago would have enjoyed foreseeing his blistering 98 from 103 balls, when he was told that recent form meant he would be overlooked from Test selection. And yet Bavuma chose this moment not to reflect on his personal journey, but to turn the conversation outwards.

And as they turn their eyes to Pink Day at the third ODI against England – where players will wear pink jerseys to reflect a commitment to raising breast cancer awareness – let us hope they also continue to envisage a playing XI where the colour of the players wearing the jerseys reflects the nation they represent.