Conrad Welcomes Senuran Back for Bangladesh Test Series

South Africa's cricket coach, Shukri Conrad, has brought spin-bowling all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy back into the fold for the upcoming two-Test series in Bangladesh next month. Muthusamy, who has previously represented the Proteas in three Tests, last played against the West Indies at SuperSport Park in Centurion in March 2023.

The Warriors' left-arm spinner joins Keshav Maharaj and Dane Piedt, who also took part in the recent Test series against the West Indies, making it a trio of spinners included in the squad. Meanwhile, Conrad has opted for just three primary seamers: Kagiso Rabada will spearhead the attack alongside Nandre Burger and experienced veteran Dane Paterson. Wiaan Mulder, who impressed in the West Indies series, adds another seam option as an all-rounder.

Muthusamy effectively takes the place of Lungi Ngidi from the squad that faced the Windies. Given the typically low and slow pitches in Bangladesh, it appears Conrad is set on fielding a team rich in all-rounders, with Mulder and Muthusamy likely competing for a spot based on the prevailing conditions.

"We’re probably looking to field a maximum of three seamers in Dhaka and Chattogram," explained Conrad. "At this point, it’s likely to be Kagiso, Nandre, and Wiaan as the all-rounder, with Dane Paterson as an option if conditions permit."

Conrad has confidence in his three frontline spinners, expressing that they are all capable of rising to the occasion when required. He highlighted the opportunity for Muthusamy to showcase his skills with both bat and ball, noting, "We’re excited to see what he can contribute."

The Test series in Bangladesh will proceed following a thorough security review, which comes after significant unrest earlier this year. The South African team is scheduled to gather in Pretoria on October 12 before departing for Bangladesh on October 15.

Proteas squad for Bangladesh Test tour: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton (wkt) and Kyle Verreynne (wkt).