Several uncapped players have been named in South Africa's squad for next month's T20I series against Pakistan.
The Proteas have picked seamers Okuhle Cele and Nandre Burger – and batsmen Jacques Snyman and Ryan Rickleton.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen will lead the XI in the absence of full-time captain Quinton de Kock.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has compelled sporting bodies to find innovative ways of ensuring tours and sporting events take place as planned or with as little disruption to revised plans as possible,” said Cricket South Africa director of cricket Graeme Smith.
“We are not exempt from that, and have had to do a bit of outside-of-the-box thinking to ensure that we are fully prepared for a home Test tour against Australia, while having an exciting T20 series to compete in, in Pakistan.
“We're in the final stages of concluding plans for how the coaching and support staff will also be managed for the two tours. We will share those details when they have been finalised.”
Test Inclusions in T20I Squad
All-rounders Dwaine Pretorius and George Linde, spinner Tabraiz Shamsi and fast bowler Lutho Sipamla are currently with the Test squad in Pakistan. They have been included in the T20I squad, too.
“A lot will be said about the inexperience of this team, but the selection panel and I believe we have a special group of players in this team that will do us proud in Pakistan,” added CSA convenor of selectors Victor Mpitsang
“It's a big year for T20 international cricket, with the World Cup coming up and this is the ideal opportunity for youngsters to put their hands up and grab opportunities, however they may come.
“We are excited to see what these youngsters will do under what won’t be the easiest of conditions, but more than that, we as a panel, are looking forward to seeing the more experienced players step up as leaders and take ownership of the team.”
The three-T20I series will start on 11 February 2021 and end three days later. All the matches will be played in Lahore.
South Africa Squad for Pakistan T20Is
- Heinrich Klaasen (captain)
- Nandre Burger
- Okuhle Cele
- Junior Dala
- Bjorn Fortuin
- Reeza Hendricks
- George Linde
- Janneman Malan
- David Miller
- Andile Phehlukwayo
- Dwaine Pretorius
- Ryan Rickelton
- Tabraiz Shamsi
- Lutho Sipamla
- Jon-Jon Smuts
- Pite van Biljon
- Glenton Stuurman
- Jacques Snyman
