In a move that has sparked significant discussion among cricket fans, Cricket South Africa has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The selection panel has made some bold and unexpected calls, blending youth with experience for the tournament set to be held in the subcontinent.
Surprise Inclusions and Notable Omissions
The most eye-catching selections are those of young fast bowler Kwena Maphaka and top-order batter Jason Smith. Smith's inclusion comes on the back of powerful recent performances in domestic T20 cricket, notably a blistering unbeaten 68 from just 19 balls for the Dolphins in the T20 Challenge last November. His form has earned him a spot ahead of Tristan Stubbs, who was part of the Proteas squad that reached the final in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Another player missing out is batter Ryan Rickelton, who found himself sidelined in a squad already packed with top-order options like captain Aiden Markram and wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock.
Return of Stars and New Faces
The squad welcomes back some key players. Star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada returns to the T20I setup after missing the recent tour of India due to a rib injury. Anrich Nortje, South Africa's leading wicket-taker in the 2024 T20 World Cup, is also back in the fold.
Alongside Maphaka and Smith, several players have received their maiden T20 World Cup call-up. This fresh group includes Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, and George Linde.
Coach's Take on Conditions and Preparation
South Africa's head coach, Shukri Conrad, emphasized the value of recent experience in Asian conditions. "We are returning to the subcontinent, where we recently competed against hosts India," Conrad stated. "The experience we gained playing in those conditions will undoubtedly benefit us as we head into this tournament."
He added that many World Cup-bound players were on that trip and have first-hand knowledge of the pitches expected. The team has one more preparatory T20I series against the West Indies before departing for the global event.
South Africa is placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, Canada, New Zealand, and the UAE. They will begin their campaign on February 9 against Canada in Ahmedabad. Former all-rounder Albie Morkel will join the squad as a specialist consultant, adding his wealth of T20 expertise.
South Africa's full T20 World Cup squad: Aiden Markram (captain), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Jason Smith.
