August 14th 2024.
New Delhi: The South African cricket team has announced its squad for the upcoming three-match T20 series against the West Indies, and there are a few new faces that have caught everyone's attention. One of them is fast-bowler Kwena Maphaka, who has been awarded his first call-up to the national team following his stellar performance in the U19 World Cup earlier this year. With an impressive record of 21 wickets at an average of 9.71, Maphaka was also named Player of the Tournament.
The 21-year-old has been making waves in the domestic T20 scene as well, having recently made his debut for the Lions team. He was even picked up by the Mumbai Indians for this year's Indian Premier League, a testament to his talent and potential. Joining Maphaka in the squad is medium-pace all-rounder Jason Smith, who has also been given his first call-up after his outstanding performance in the 2023/24 CSA T20 Challenge, where he scored 291 runs at an average of 41.57 and a strike rate of 134.10.
Head coach Rob Walter expressed his excitement about these new additions to the team, saying, "We're thrilled to have both Jason and Kwena join us for this series. Jason has been in excellent form recently, and his ability to contribute with both bat and ball will be a valuable asset to our lineup." He also added, "Kwena has been identified as a player with immense potential, and this tour will give him the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the international arena."
However, there are a few notable absences from the squad. Quinton de Kock, Heinrich Klaasen, Anrich Nortje, David Miller, and Tabraiz Shamsi will not be playing due to their commitments in the Caribbean Premier League. Additionally, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, and Marco Jansen have been given a well-deserved rest. Spinner Nqaba Peter, who made his T20I debut against the West Indies in May, will also not be joining the team as he is still recovering from a shoulder injury.
The three T20 matches between South Africa and the West Indies will take place at the Brian Lara Stadium from August 23-27. Coach Walter shared his thoughts on the team's selection, saying, "We had to take into consideration the players' injuries, workload management, and participation in ongoing T20 leagues when finalizing the squad for this series." He also added, "This tour gives us the opportunity to continue developing our player pool while also giving our emerging talent a chance to face top-quality international opposition."
The newly announced squad includes Aiden Markram, Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, and Lizaad Williams. With a mix of experienced players and promising new talents, the Proteas are ready to take on the West Indies and continue their growth and development as a team.
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