Blue Bells Cricket Club seamer Imraan Philander has been named in South Africa Under-19’s squad for a limited-overs series against Pakistan Under-19 later this year.
Philander played in the inaugural Cape Premier League earlier this month, which also featured Proteas cricketers Zubayr Hamza and Dane Piedt – and a string of provincial and club stars.
“The selection committee has selected a well-balanced team which will be up against talented and skillful opposition,” said Cricket South Africa high performance manager Vincent Barnes.
“The majority of the players recently toured India and also qualify to represent South Africa in the International Cricket Council Under-19 World Cup next year, so this will be more invaluable experience for them. I wish coach Lawrence Mahatlane and his team all the best for the series.”
Captain Bryce Parsons added: “It’s obviously a massive privilege to captain my country in this upcoming tour against Pakistan. I am pretty shocked to be captain because I didn’t think I’d get it, but I am grateful for this opportunity that has come to hand,” he said.
“I am just going to try lead from the front and set a good example for the team, try to add to the team culture and help everyone get ready for the games.”
Squad: Bryce Parsons (captain), Luke Beaufort, Jonathan Bird, Achille Cloete, Gerald Coetzee, Khanya Cotani, Michael Copeland, Andrew Louw, Akeem Minaar, Lifa Ntanzi, Imraan Philander, Siya Plaatjie, Ruan Terblanche, Tiaan van Vuuren, Nonelela Yika.