South Africa has set the stage for the upcoming multi-format series against India, commencing on December 10, by announcing squads that balance strategic player rest and the infusion of fresh talent. The tour encompasses three T20Is, followed by as many ODIs and two Tests, contributing to the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.
Strategic Rest for Key Players
Notable omissions from the ODI leg include skipper Temba Bavuma and pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada, who will make their return for the Test series. Aiden Markram, leading the Proteas in T20Is, will continue as captain in ODIs during Bavuma’s absence. The decision aligns with South Africa’s emphasis on preparing senior players for the red-ball leg by engaging in domestic cricket.
“After an excellent overall showing at the recently concluded ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, we want to capitalize on that momentum and continue building on our core group during this Freedom Series,” said limited-overs’ head coach Rob Walter.
Opportunities for Emerging Talents
In the absence of senior players for the ODI series, three emerging talents have earned their maiden international call-ups. All-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana, recognized for a successful CSA Division 1 One-Day Cup campaign, finds a place in the ODI squad. David Bedingham has been added to the Test squad, showcasing promise in the domestic circuit. The 28-year-old fast bowler Nandre Burger, having a spectacular domestic season, features across all three squads.
“This move has presented opportunities for others that have been performing well on the domestic level to be drafted in,” highlighted Rob Walter.
Building Momentum and Looking Ahead
The squad announcements come on the heels of an impressive showing at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, aiming to sustain the momentum in the upcoming Freedom Series. With a busy summer ahead, South Africa is strategically managing player workloads to maximize their impact, especially focusing on the red-ball leg.
South Africa T20I squad: Aiden Markram (c), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee (1st and 2ndT20Is), Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen (1st and 2nd T20Is), Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi (1st and 2nd T20Is), Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, and Lizaad Williams
South Africa ODI squad: Aiden Markram (c), Ottniel Baartman, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Mihlali Mpongwana, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne and Lizaad Williams
South Africa Test squad: Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Dean Elgar, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne
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