South Africa Announce 15-Member ODI Squad Against Pakistan;  Kwena Maphaka Debuts

Kwena Maphaka earns ODI call-up for South Africa against Pakistan [Source: @atnyuswa/X.com]

South Africa has named a strong squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan. The Proteas are keen to make the most of this opportunity as they have already shown promise with their first T20I win against the Men in Green in Kingsmead.

Several key players, including Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, and Tabraiz Shamsi, have been recalled to the squad. This is particularly significant for Shamsi, who had opted out of a national contract earlier this year.

---

ALSO READ

'I Have Been Studying...'- Mumbai Indians' Young Gun Kwena Maphaka Returns To School

---

Maphaka Set For ODI Debut Against Pakistan

The absence of several injured fast bowlers, including Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Gerald Coetzee, Wiaan Mulder, and Nandre Burger, has opened up opportunities for other bowlers to step up, especially Kwena Maphaka. The 18-year-old fast bowler impressed at the recent Under-19 World Cup by being the leading wicket-taker. Maphaka will, therefore, be hoping to make his ODI debut and impress the selectors for the Champions Trophy 2025.

The bowling attack will be led by Rabada and will also feature the experienced spin duo of Maharaj and Shamsi. Andile Phehlukwayo and Marco Jansen will provide all-round options, while Ottneil Baartman will add depth to the seam-bowling attack.

The series will be led by Temba Bavuma, who has recovered from injury and is eager to lead the team to victory. The batting lineup is also strong, with the likes of Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Klaasen, and Miller providing a formidable batting core.

With SA's squad announced, the highly anticipated series is scheduled to take place between December 17 and 22, with matches in Paarl, Cape Town, and Johannesburg.

South Africa ODI squad against Pakistan

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

---

ALSO READ

SA vs PAK 1st T20I Highlights: Rizwan Loses Lone Battle As Linde’s Triple Strike Leads South Africa To Victory

---