Apart from Markram, several other all-format players, such as Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada and Tristan Stubbs, will miss the Pakistan T20Is, scheduled between December 10 and 14, with the second Test against Sri Lanka concluding on December 9. These players will, however, be a part of the ODI series against Pakistan in early 2025, in preparation for next year’s Champions Trophy.
“Heinrich is a vastly experienced player with a strong understanding and reading of the game,” South Africa’s white-ball head coach Rob Walter said. “We look forward to utilising him in this role after his previous experiences in 2021.
“We have also given George an opportunity again. He really earned his spot off the back of a strong domestic campaign, and his skills as a spinning all-rounder add important balance to the team. We’re pleased to have Anrich and Tabraiz back in the squad. Their wealth of experience and skill significantly bolsters our bowling unit, enhancing both our pace and spin departments, which will be key against a strong Pakistan side.”
The squad will begin preparations with a two-day camp at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria from December 6-8. On Sunday, they will head to Durban where the first match will be played, followed by back-to-back games in Centurion and Johannesburg on December 13 and 14, respectively.
South Africa squad against Pakistan
Heinrich Klaasen (capt), Ottneil Baartman, Matthew Breetzke*, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka*, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton*, Tabraiz Shamsi**, Andile Simelane, Rassie van der Dussen
*Matthew Breetzke, Kwena Maphaka and Ryan Rickelton will join the squad following their Test commitments against Sri Lanka
**Tabraiz Shamsi’s participation in the ongoing Global Super League in Guyana may affect his availability for the first T20I
