South African top order batsman Aiden Markram is expected to be match fit for the upcoming third and the final Test of the series against India, starting from 24 January at Johannesburg.

The 23-year-old opener sustained a mild thigh (left-quadricep) strain during the second Test and due to which he did not take the field for India's second innings while Theuis de Bruyn fielded in his place in Centurion. The opener will receive treatment and rehabilitation over the next week.

The Proteas medical team has expressed hopes that Markram will be fit for the Johannesburg Test. Markram made his Test debut against Bangladesh in September 2017.

If Markram is unavailable for the final Test, then it will pose a major selection challenge for South Africa as there are no other noticeable options in the opening-batsman role for now apart from Markram. Temba Bavuma has also been released from the squad as South Africa heads into the third Test match. 

Given the stringent condition now,  the hosts might recall Temba Bavuma who was released to play in a domestic one-day match, for Johannesburg Test in place of Markram against India.