Synopsis
Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee is back in South Africa's squad for the tri-series opener in Pakistan against New Zealand on February 10. Six uncapped players join him in the lineup, under captain Temba Bavuma. This series is crucial before the Champions Trophy begins later this month.Key Takeaways
- Gerald Coetzee returns after injury.
- South Africa's squad includes six uncapped players.
- Tri-series begins on February 10 in Lahore.
- Significant matches before the Champions Trophy.
- Squad for the next matches to be announced on February 9.
New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has made a recovery from a left hamstring strain and is now part of South Africa's 12-man lineup for the tri-series opener in Pakistan, set for February 10 in Lahore against New Zealand.
Coetzee has faced challenges with groin and hamstring injuries, which impacted his play in Tests against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. His hamstring issue also sidelined him from the SA20 2024 season with Jo’burg Super Kings after just one appearance.
In the first match of this tri-series, South Africa will be under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, who will feature six uncapped players including batters Matthew Breetzke and Meeka-eel Prince, alongside fast bowlers Gideon Peters and Eathan Bosch, as well as spinner Senuran Muthusamy and all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana.
Mpongwana, aged 24, has received his second call-up to the 50-over format following his inclusion in the ODI squad against India in 2023. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced that more players will be added to the squad after the SA20 Eliminator between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Joburg Super Kings on Wednesday.
CSA also confirmed that Keshav Maharaj and Heinrich Klaasen will be available for South Africa's second ODI against Pakistan on February 12 in Karachi, with the squad for the remaining matches to be revealed on February 9 after the conclusion of the SA20 final.
This tri-series holds significant importance for all three participating teams, as it serves as their final bilateral matches before the Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19. South Africa is positioned in Group B among Afghanistan, Australia, and England.
CSA announced that the 12-man squad along with support staff, led by Rob Walter, will head to Lahore on Wednesday evening. Meanwhile, members of the Champions Trophy squad such as Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Rassie van der Dussen will travel to Pakistan on February 14.
South Africa's squad for the first tri-series match includes: Temba Bavuma (captain), Eathan Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Gerald Coetzee, Junior Dala, Wiaan Mulder, Mihlali Mpongwana, Senuran Muthusamy, Gideon Peters, Meeka-eel Prince, Jason Smith, and Kyle Verreynne.
