On the eve of the pink-ball Test at the Gabba, Stokes made it clear that the selection was dictated by conditions and team balance, not a reflection on Bashir’s standing within the squad.
Dhruv Jurel will serve as vice-captain, while KL Rahul and Mohammed Siraj will join only for the second game, with the BCCI yet to confirm which players they will replace.
Young opener Sam Konstas has been named in the 14-member Australia A squad that is scheduled to tour India in September to take part in two red-ball matches.
CA said it has advised Cricket South Africa of the players' decision.
"As a coach, I'll help the players prepare as well as we can," Australia A coach Gillespie said.
Nicholson said a 'significant breakthrough' was needed for the South Africa tour to proceed.
