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JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has unveiled a 15-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, scheduled to be played from 10 December.
The three-match T20I series between South Africa and Pakistan will commence on 10 December in Durban. Meanwhile, Centurion and Johannesburg will host the subsequent matches on 13 December and 14 December respectively.
Heinrich Klaasen will take the helm as captain, stepping into the role in place of regular skipper Aiden Markram, who is unavailable for the T20I series.
Notably, the squad will be missing several integral players who have performed consistently across formats. Star cricketers including Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Tristan Stubbs will be rested to prepare for the ODI series against Pakistan.
Meanwhile, fast bowler Anrich Nortje and spinner Tabraiz Shamsi are making a much-awaited comeback to the international scene. This series will be their first outing since the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup held in June.
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Additionally, all-rounder George Linde is back in the fold after an impressive domestic campaign, showcasing his skills and versatility.
“All 15 players are capped, and we’re looking to build on the experience within the group as we continue to grow as a unit,” said South Africa’s white-ball head coach Rob Walter.
“In the absence of Aiden, Heinrich will lead the team. He is a vastly experienced player with a strong understanding and reading of the game. We look forward to utilising him in this role after his previous experiences in 2021.
“We have also given George an opportunity again. He really earned his spot off the back of a strong domestic campaign, and his skills as a spinning all-rounder add important balance to the team.
“We’re pleased to have Anrich and Tabraiz back in the squad. Their wealth of experience and skill significantly bolsters our bowling unit, enhancing both our pace and spin departments, which will be key against a strong Pakistan side.”
South Africa T20I Squad against Pakistan
Heinrich Klaasen (c), Ottneil Baartman, Matthew Breetzke*, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka*, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton*, Tabraiz Shamsi**, Andile Simelane, and Rassie van der Dussen.
*Matthew Breetzke, Kwena Maphaka, and Ryan Rickelton will join the squad after completing their Test duties against Sri Lanka.
**Tabraiz Shamsi‘s involvement in the ongoing Global Super League (GSL) in Guyana may impact his availability for the first T20I.
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