Kwena Maphaka Earns Maiden International Call-Up for South Africa’s T20I Series Against West Indies

South Africa and the West Indies are all set to face each other in a three-match T20 series. Later in this month, both will face each other in that series. Before that, South African youngster Kwena Maphaka got his maiden call-up for the T20I series. He was named Player of the Tournament at the Under-19 World Cup and is set to make his senior international debut as he joins South Africa’s squad. 

Maphaka Got Maiden Call Up:

After the ongoing Test series, South Africa and West Indies will face each other in a three-match T20I series. The first match of the series will be played on August 24. Fast bowler Kwena Maphaka, who was named Player of the Tournament at the Under-19 World Cup this year, is set to make his senior international debut for South Africa. He has been selected in the squad for the upcoming three T20I series against the West Indies later this month.

He played a crucial role in South Africa’s U-19 World Cup campaign.  He took 21 wickets at an average of 9.71, helping his team reach the semi-finals. Additionally, Maphaka made his provincial debut for the Lions. Later he was recently signed by the Mumbai Indians for IPL 2024 and also played matches for them.

Several key players, including Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Quinton de Kock, and Heinrich Klaasen, are absent from the squad due to various reasons. Maphaka’s selection highlights his rapid rise and the trust the selectors have in his potential.

Along with him, Jason Smith has been selected for South Africa’s T20I series against the West Indies. He scored 291 runs in the CSA T20 Challenge at an average of 41.57 and also provides an additional pace bowling option.

Coach’s Words:

After their inclusion into the team, South African Coach Rov Walter said, “ We’re excited to have Jason [Smith] and Kwena [Maphaka] join the squad for this series. Jason’s recent performances have been impressive, and his ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds valuable depth to our line-up.”

While talking about Mapakha, Walter said, “Kwena has been identified as a player with significant potential, and this tour presents a great opportunity to include him in the Proteas environment and gain valuable international experience.”

South Africa’s T20I Squad Against West Indies: 

Aiden Markram (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen and Lizaad Williams

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