Johannesburg, December 10, 2024 – South Africa has announced its squad for the T20 International (T20I) series against Pakistan, which kicks off today. The three-match series will run from December 10 to 14, providing cricket enthusiasts a thrilling clash between South Africa and Pakistan.
Cricket South Africa’s white-ball coach, Rob Walter, named a 15-player squad led by Heinrich Klaasen. Klaasen steps in as captain in the absence of Aiden Markram, who remains occupied with the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka. Notably, key players such as Markram, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Tristan Stubbs will skip the T20I series but are expected to return for the subsequent ODI matches against Pakistan. These matches serve as preparation for South Africa’s campaign in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
The squad sees the return of pacer Anrich Nortje and spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, both of whom last featured in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June 2024. Additionally, all-rounder George Linde makes a comeback to South Africa’s T20I setup after his last appearance in July 2021. Linde’s stellar performance in the CSA T20 Challenge, where he scored 171 runs at a strike rate of 178.12 and took nine wickets, earned him a place in the squad.
Preparations began with a two-day camp at South Africa’s Centre of Excellence in Pretoria before the team traveled to Durban. The series will open at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, followed by matches at SuperSport Park in Centurion and DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
Walter expressed confidence in South Africa’s lineup: “With all 15 players already capped, we aim to build on the group’s experience. Heinrich Klaasen’s leadership, backed by his understanding of the game, will be pivotal. George Linde’s return adds balance, and the inclusion of Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi strengthens our bowling attack.”
The South African squad is well-equipped to face Pakistan’s formidable side, setting the stage for an exciting series. Cricket fans in South Africa and beyond will be eagerly following the Proteas’ performance.
