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South Africa Announces Strong Squad for ODI Series Against Pakistan

South Africa Announces Strong Squad for ODI Series Against Pakistan

South Africa’s white-ball head coach, Rob Walter, has unveiled an impressive 15-player squad for the highly anticipated three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan. The series is scheduled to take place from December 17 to December 22, 2024, and promises to deliver thrilling cricket action as the Proteas gear up for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy.

Rising Star Kwena Maphaka Earns Maiden ODI Call-Up

A standout inclusion in the squad is 18-year-old DP World Lions seamer Kwena Maphaka, who has been rewarded with his first call-up to the 50-over format. Maphaka has already made a mark in T20 Internationals and was named Player of the Tournament at the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup earlier this year. His 21 wickets at an astounding average of 9.71 during the tournament cemented his reputation as a rising star.

Since then, Maphaka has continued to impress, earning a spot in the senior national team, where he has already featured in four T20 matches for South Africa. His inclusion in the ODI squad adds youthful energy and potential to an already formidable lineup.

Key Players and Returning Stars

Joining Maphaka is Kagiso Rabada, who returns to the ODI squad for the first time since the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final against Australia. Other notable players include Hollywoodbets Dolphins bowler Ottneil Baartman, and versatile all-rounders Marco Jansen and Andile Phehlukwayo.

In the batting department, captain Temba Bavuma will lead a squad bolstered by the return of experienced power hitters David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen, both of whom last played an ODI in December 2023 against India. Their presence promises depth and firepower to the Proteas batting lineup.

Schedule and Venues

The three-match series will be played at iconic cricketing venues in South Africa:

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

Pink Day, an annual cricketing tradition in Johannesburg, adds a charitable and festive atmosphere to the final match of the series.

Coach’s Perspective

Commenting on the squad selection, Rob Walter expressed his excitement:

“We have named our strongest squad available, with each player capable of being a match-winner on their day. The bowling lineup, featuring one of the fastest in the game in KG (Rabada), and the inclusion of a young talent like Kwena, brings a perfect blend of experience and youth.

“In the batting department, the return of David and Heinrich adds tremendous firepower. This series will be crucial in fine-tuning our combinations ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy next year, and we look forward to the challenge.”