Limited-overs coach Rob Walter has effectively defended the inexperienced composition of the Proteas’ squad for this month’s tour of the United Arab Emirates.
The squad is without several experienced players such as batsmen David Miller, fast bowler Kagiso Rabada and spinner Keshav Maharaj.
Relative newcomers Nqaba Peter, Tony de Zorzi and others, meanwhile, lost September 2024’s ODI series to Afghanistan in Sharjah.
All-rounders Jason Smith and Andile Simelane and other newcomers have been included in the squad for the upcoming T20I and ODI series against Ireland in Abu Dhabi.
“We are not casting the net too wide. We still want to ensure that in gaining experience we are doing so in a measured fashion, so we are not handing out too many caps to too many players,” said Walter.
“But building on the experience the guys have gained out of these matches. Hopefully they take these experiences into the Ireland series.
“There’s a group of players who are experienced and have been the bedrock of the batting line-up – now we have different players stepping in that space and are working hard at playing spin.”
South Africa were bowled out for 106 in the first ODI against Afghanistan and 134 in the second.
“We can only get better if we are exposed to [tough] conditions. Hopefully this is a catalyst for us getting better and the depth stronger,” added Walter.
South Africa lost the T20 World Cup final to India earlier this year – and currently currently occupy third position in the International Cricket Council’s rankings for ODI teams. India, Australia and Pakistan are in first, second and fourth position, respectively.