South Africa has named a strong squad for their upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, aiming to capitalize on their last chance to play together before the 2025 Champions Trophy. With a tight schedule, the February tri-series in Pakistan, which also involves New Zealand, comes too close to the conclusion of the SA20 to feature a full-strength team.
The squad sees nine players returning from the last ODI series, including Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, and Tabraiz Shamsi. Eighteen-year-old Kwena Maphaka, who impressed with his pace during the T20I series against Pakistan, is the only uncapped player in the squad. Maphaka earned his spot due to the absence of several injured quicks like Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, and others.
Regular captain Temba Bavuma leads the squad, with Ryan Rickelton likely opening alongside him. Reeza Hendricks, who struggled in recent ODIs, has been dropped in favor of Tony de Zorzi, another top-order option. South Africa’s batting lineup is bolstered by experienced players such as Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, and Miller.
The squad also includes seam-bowling allrounders Andile Phehlukwayo and Marco Jansen, along with Ottneil Baartman and spinners Maharaj and Shamsi. The return of Shamsi, who had opted out of a national contract for more league flexibility, adds depth to the bowling attack.
Coach Rob Walter expressed excitement about the squad, highlighting the opportunity for young talents like Maphaka to learn from seasoned players like Rabada. With key players returning, South Africa hopes to make a statement ahead of the World Test Championship final, where they only need one more Test win to secure their spot.
South Africa ODI Squad: Temba Bavuma (capt), Ottneil Baartman, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen.