Cricket South Africa (CSA) has officially announced their men’s squad for the upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan, set to take place in Sharjah starting September 18. The announcement comes as part of the team’s strategy to build depth in their 50-overs lineup ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
New faces in the Proteas squad
The South African selectors have handed first-time ODI call-ups to three players: Nqaba Peter, Andile Simelane and Jason Smith. This decision reflects the team’s commitment to nurturing new talent and expanding their player pool.
Rob Walter, South Africa’s limited-overs team coach, emphasized the importance of giving opportunities to emerging players. “We have decided to give opportunities to some of the fringe players as well as those who have impressed in recent weeks and months. This has been a deliberate move, in line with our goal of building a wider pool of players to choose from, as we prepare for the major tournaments taking place over the next 18 months, with a long-term view on the 50-over World Cup in 2027,” he stated in a press release.
Key players returning to the 50-overs set up
Seamer Lungi Ngidi, who recently recovered from a right calf injury, has been included in the ODI squad, providing a significant boost to the team’s bowling attack. Ngidi’s experience and skill will be crucial as South Africa looks to establish dominance in the 50-overs format.
South Africa’s upcoming schedule
The ODI series against Afghanistan will consist of three matches, with the first match scheduled for September 18, followed by two more on September 20 and September 22. After the ODIs, South Africa will play two T20I matches against Ireland in Abu Dhabi, followed by three additional ODIs against the same opponents.
South Africa squad for ODI series vs Afghanistan
Temba Bavuma (c), Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Nqaba Peter, Andile Simelane, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Lizaad Williams
