South Africa have announced a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, beginning December 17. This series is particularly significant as it will mark the Proteas’ final bilateral 50-over engagement before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The squad selection signals a determined effort to field the strongest possible side, showcasing a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging stars.

Return of key players strengthens South Africa

Several experienced players make their comeback to the ODI setup, having missed the Ireland series in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada headlines the list, joined by prolific middle-order stalwarts Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller. Spin twins Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi also return, fortifying South Africa’s attack on subcontinental wickets. Their inclusion adds depth and balance to a side gearing up for an intense contest.

This series also will mark Rabada’s first ODI appearance since the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, underscoring the Proteas’ focus on assembling their top-tier talent. The timing of this series allows South Africa to evaluate their strongest combinations in a competitive setting ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Temba Bavuma returns as captain

Skipper Temba Bavuma has recovered from the injury he sustained during the Ireland ODIs and is back to lead the side. Bavuma’s leadership and consistency at the top of the order are pivotal for South Africa’s success. He is expected to open the innings, with Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks in contention for the second opener’s spot. This top-order trio provides the team with options to adapt to various conditions and scenarios.

South Africa’s middle order boasts formidable firepower. Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller form a dynamic lineup capable of adapting to any game situation. Klaasen and Miller’s ability to accelerate in the latter stages complements the stability provided by van der Dussen and Markram.

Adding youthful exuberance is 18-year-old pace sensation Kwena Maphaka, who has been named in the ODI squad for the first time. Maphaka’s exploits in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024, where he claimed 21 wickets at a staggering average of 9.71, earned him the Player of the Tournament award. His selection reflects South Africa’s commitment to nurturing young talent while building for the future.

The bowling lineup will be spearheaded by Rabada, who has Marco Jansen, Ottneil Baartman, Andile Phehlukwayo and the uncapped Maphaka for support. Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi add variety with their spin, ensuring the Proteas have multiple options to exploit Pakistan’s batting weaknesses. This balance in the attack enables South Africa to remain competitive across all phases of the game.

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Anrich Nortje’s absence a major setback

A notable absentee from the squad is Anrich Nortje, who has been ruled out of both the ongoing T20I series and the ODI series due to a fractured toe. Nortje sustained the injury during training ahead of the first T20I against Pakistan. Scans confirmed the extent of the injury, and the speedster is now consulting a specialist.

This marks the second major injury setback for Nortje in the past 15 months. Having missed nine months from September 2023 due to a stress fracture, he returned during IPL 2024 and played a pivotal role in South Africa’s T20 World Cup campaign. However, his absence from this series leaves a void in the pace attack.

South Africa’s squad for the ODI series against Pakistan

Temba Bavuma (c), Ottneil Baartman, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen

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