The Proteas have named a 15-man squad for this month’s T20I series against Pakistan.
All-rounder George Linde has been recalled. Fast bowler Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi have returned, too.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen will lead the team in the absence of captain Aiden Markram.
Markram, all-rounder Marco Jansen, spinner Keshav Maharaj, fast bowler Kagiso Rabada and batsman Tristan Stubbs, who are involved in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka, have been rested for December 2024’s three T20Is against Pakistan.
“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 Proteas limited-overs 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.”
This T20I series will be played in Durban, Centurion and Johannesburg from 10 to 14 December.
Proteas’ T20I squad
- Heinrich Klaasen (captain)
- 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
- Rassie van der Dussen