Fast bowler Anrich Nortje and wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi have been recalled to South Africa’s T20I squad for the first time since the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup. The team will face Pakistan in a three-match series starting December 10.
South Africa, coming off a 3-1 series loss to India, will feature a new-look squad led by wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced that regular captain Aiden Markram, along with Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Tristan Stubbs, will sit out the T20I series due to the tight schedule. However, they are set to return for the ODI series as the team prepares for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
All-rounder George Linde also makes a comeback to the T20I setup, having last played in July 2021 against Ireland. Linde earned his spot after a strong domestic season in the CSA T20 Challenge, scoring 171 runs at a strike rate of 178.12 and taking nine wickets at an average of 18.33.
The return of Nortje and Shamsi strengthens South Africa’s bowling attack. Both players, who have been active in various franchise leagues, bring valuable experience and depth to the squad.
“All 15 players are capped, and we’re focusing on building the group’s experience as we continue to grow as a team,” head coach Rob Walter said. “In Aiden’s absence, Heinrich will lead the team. He has vast experience and a great understanding of the game, which makes him well-suited for this role.
“We’re also excited to have George back after his excellent domestic performances, and the inclusion of Anrich and Tabraiz significantly boosts both our pace and spin options, which will be crucial against a strong Pakistan side.”
Tabraiz Shamsi Withdraws from CSA Contract Effective Immediately
Shamsi’s availability for the series opener is uncertain due to his involvement in the Global Super League in Guyana. Meanwhile, Matthew Breetzke, Kwena Maphaka, and Ryan Rickelton will join the squad after South Africa’s second Test against Sri Lanka, concluding on December 9 in Gqeberha.
The squad will kick off preparations with a two-day camp at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria from December 6-8 before heading to Durban for the first T20I at Kingsmead Stadium on December 10. The remaining matches will take place at SuperSport Park in Centurion on December 13 and Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on December 14.
South Africa Squad: Heinrich Klaasen (c), 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 and Rassie van der Dussen.