Keshav Maharaj, the Proteas spinner who led Durban's Super Giants to this year's SA20 final, will captain the KZN Dolphins in the upcoming T20 Challenge.
Maharaj has previously captained the Proteas in both T20I and ODI cricket.
Dolphins coach Imraan Khan expressed his confidence in Maharaj's leadership, stating that the players understand his value as a leader.
Maharaj has proven himself to be one of the best spinners in white-ball cricket and consistently delivers strong performances, which is a significant advantage for KZN Dolphins.
He will be surrounded by a number of highly experienced T20 players, and we are eagerly anticipating the start of the competition next week.
The Dolphins have been runners-up in the T20 Challenge twice in the last three seasons.
With players such as Maharaj, Jason Smith, Jon-Jon Smuts, Andile Phehlukwayo, and SA20 Bowler of the Tournament Ottniel Baartman in the squad, the Dolphins aim to win the trophy this season.
According to Khan, the team has strong depth, which is always desirable.
Many players have regular experience in the SA20, and others have gained experience with various franchises. The players are eager to showcase what they learned during the tournament.
The Dolphins have named a squad of 19 players, including young talents Andile Simelane, Brad Porteous, and Bryce Parsons, as well as experienced players Prenelan Subrayen, SJ Erwee, and Khaya Zondo.
Tristan Luus, a fast bowler who played an important role in South Africa's recent U19 World Cup campaign, has been added to the Dolphins squad for the T20 Challenge.
KZN Dolphins T20 squad:
Keshav Maharaj, Grant Roelofsen, Bryce Parsons, Eathan Bosch, Khaya Zondo, Marques Ackerman, Jon-Jon Smuts, Brad Porteous, Jason Smith, Andile Phehlukwayo, Andile Simelane, Prenelan Subrayen, Ottniel Baartman, Okuhle Cele, Daryn Dupavillon, Tristan Luus, Odirile Modimokoane, Tshepang Dithole, SJ Erwee.