Cricket South Africa (CSA) have announced their men’s squad for the upcoming home One-Day International (ODI) series against England, scheduled to begin on January 27 in Bloemfontein.
Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, the 16-member squad will play a three-match ODI series against Jos Buttler-led England. These ODIs are part of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League 2020-23, which carries qualification points for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, slated to be held in India later this year.
Sisanda Magala and Marco Jansen have made a comeback to the ODI outfit. The duo will strengthen the pace battery, which already has the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, and Wayne Parnell. Notably, Magala is the joint third-highest wicket-taker in the ongoing SA20 and was the leading wicket-taker in this season’s domestic one-day cup.
Hard-hitting batting sensation Dewald Brevis, who is in red-hot form in SA20, was not considered for selection. However, it is expected that the explosive batter might well get an opportunity in the T20I series against West Indies in March.
“The selection panel is particularly excited by the depth of this squad, with a mix of youth and experience. We are confident that this group of players will take us one step closer to qualifying for the ICC Men’s World Cup in India later this year,” said Convener of Selectors Victor Mpitsang in a statement.
“We are also pleased with the inclusion of Sisanda and the commitment he has shown to meet the fitness standards required for national selection. The three-match series against England will kickstart our international home season following months on the road, and we would like to wish Temba and Shukri well in what will no doubt be an exciting series against quality opposition,” Mpitsang added.
South Africa squad for England ODIs:
Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Rassie van der Dussen, Keshav Maharaj, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Sisanda Magala, Janneman Malan, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi.