South Africa have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 series against Pakistan in December.
The series will see South Africa’s Henrik Klaasen step in as captain, deputizing for the unavailability of regular skipper Aiden Markram.
The squad will also be without some of South Africa’s key all-format players.
Marco Johnson, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Tristan Stubbs will miss the series as they are being rested for the ODI series against the Man in Green.
Fast bowler Enrique Nortje and spinner Tabriz Shamsi will return for the first time since the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June.
The squad also sees the return of all-rounder George Linde, who has been recalled after a strong domestic campaign.
Proteas coach Rob Walter expressed his thoughts on the squad selection, saying: “All 15 players are capped, and we want to add experience within the group as we continue to develop as a unit.
Henrik will lead the team in Aidan’s absence. He is a vastly experienced player with a strong understanding and reading of the game. We look forward to using him in this role in 2021 following his previous experiences.
“We’ve also given George another chance. He earned his spot on the back of a really strong domestic campaign, and his skills as a spinning all-rounder provide vital balance in the team.
“We are delighted to have Enrich and Tabrez back in the squad. Their experience and expertise significantly strengthens our bowling unit, adding to both our pace and spin departments, which is a strong Pakistan team. will be key against.”
The 20-over series between South Africa and Pakistan will be played at three venues on December 10, 13 and 14 respectively: Durban, Centurion and Johannesburg.
South Africa T20 squad against Pakistan:
Heinrich Klaasen (C), Ottneil Bartman, 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 Racevan Dussen.
Matthew Bretzke, Koena Mafaka, and Ryan Rickelton will join the squad after completing their Test duties against Sri Lanka.
Tabriz Shamsi’s involvement in the ongoing Global Super League in Guyana may affect his availability for the first T20I.