South Africa Announces ODI Squad for Pakistan Series

Rob Walter, South Africa’s white-ball head coach, has announced a strong 15-player squad for the upcoming three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, scheduled from 17 to 22 December 2024.

Also Read: Pakistan Finalizes Squad for South Africa Tour

Notable Call-Ups:

• Kwena Maphaka, an 18-year-old fast bowler from the DP World Lions, has earned his first-ever call-up to the 50-over setup. Maphaka impressed with his performance at the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, where he was named Player of the Tournament after taking 21 wickets at an average of 9.71.
• Kagiso Rabada returns to the ODI squad for the first time since the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final against Australia in November.
• Other notable players in the squad include fast bowlers Ottneil Baartman, Marco Jansen, and all-rounders Andile Phehlukwayo.

Batting Strength:

• Temba Bavuma will captain the side, which is bolstered by the return of David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen, who both last featured in an ODI against India in December 2023.

ODI Series Schedule:

• 1st ODI: 17 December 2024 at Boland Park in Paarl
• 2nd ODI: 19 December 2024 at World Sports Betting Newlands
• 3rd ODI (Pink Day): 22 December 2024 at DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg

Comment from Rob Walter:

Walter expressed excitement about the squad, emphasizing the potential of every player to be a match-winner. He highlighted the experience and leadership of Kagiso Rabada and the opportunity for Kwena Maphaka to learn from the senior players. He also welcomed the return of David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen, calling them among the most destructive players in the game.

This series will serve as preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy next year, and Walter expressed confidence in the team’s ability to fine-tune their combinations in this important series.

Proteas ODI Squad against Pakistan:

1. Temba Bavuma (captain, DP World Lions)
2. Ottneil Baartman (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
3. Tony de Zorzi (World Sports Betting Western Province)
4. Marco Jansen (Renault North West Dragons)
5. Heinrich Klaasen (Momentum Multiply Titans)
6. Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
7. Kwena Maphaka (DP World Lions)
8. Aiden Markram (Momentum Multiply Titans)
9. David Miller (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)