'Successful Aiden Markram is good for South Africa', says head coach Mark Boucher

South Africa have embarked on their two-month-long tour of England, which comprises 3-ODIs, 3-T20Is, and 3-Tests.

The tour could become a make-or-break opportunity for some players who have not yet lived up to their potential in international cricket.

Aiden Markram, an established name in the T20 format, has yet to find his footing in the 50-overs and Test formats. However, with Temba Bavuma ruled out, a lot will depend on how Markram performs.

Head coach Mark Boucher, however, is ready to give Markram the long rope, knowing how crucial he is to the side's success.

"He's played a lot of cricket, so I think everything (Covid-19) happens for a reason. Obviously, he didn't play in India and came home, so he had a good bit of time to go back and just reflect on what's been a long season.

"I've had a chat with him. He's worked on a couple of things, so I've got no doubt that he's itching to get out there and to try and score some runs for the Proteas. A successful Aiden Markram is good for the Proteas set up," Boucher was quoted by IOL Sport.

The right-handed batter faces competition from Reeza Hendricks and Khaya Zondo.

Boucher, regarded as one of the best wicket-keepers in the world, said that the upcoming warm-up games would decide the team's make-up.

"We've got quite a few different options for these games that we're going to be playing now in the next couple of days. It will give us a good indication of where those players are as individuals.

"But I mean, I think we've sort of got a good idea barring maybe one or two extra batters who our front lineup is going to be. So we'll just have to see how a bit of form plays itself out. And hopefully, you know, hopefully we get the proper headache of having everyone among the runs," Boucher concluded.

Markram, who plays for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise, has played 31 Tests, 38 ODIs, and 20 T20Is for the Proteas.