South Africa has unveiled a strong and well-balanced squad for the upcoming men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February to March. The biggest highlight of the squad announcement is the return of star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, who comes back after nearly ten weeks out due to a rib injury.
Rabada made his comeback on New Year’s Eve, playing for MI Cape Town in the SA20 league, where he claimed 2 wickets for 48 runs, earning his spot in the World Cup squad. He is expected to spearhead South Africa’s fast-bowling attack, supported by Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Lungi Ngidi, and young talent Kwena Maphaka.
The squad features seven debutants in T20 World Cups, including Corbin Bosch, Kwena Maphaka, batter Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Jason Smith, and all-rounders George Linde and Donavon Ferreira. Their inclusion adds fresh talent and depth to the team.
Veteran Aiden Markram will continue as captain, while only seven players from the squad that reached the 2024 T20 World Cup final have been retained. Quinton de Kock rejoins as opener after becoming available in October, alongside experienced players David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, and Anrich Nortje.
Patrick Moroney, South Africa’s selection convener, emphasized the careful planning behind the squad, stating, “We had to make some big calls, but we believe this squad has the capability to succeed in the conditions in India and Sri Lanka.”
South Africa will kick off its World Cup campaign on 9 February against Canada and will also face Afghanistan, New Zealand, and the United Arab Emirates in the group stage.
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South Africa T20 World Cup Squad:
Aiden Markram (captain), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper), Tony de Zorzi, Donavon Ferreira, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Jason Smith
