South Africa's white-ball coach, Rob Walter, has named the squads that will face Afghanistan and Ireland in a limited-overs series in the UAE later this month. The Proteas will begin with a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, followed by two T20Is and three ODIs against Ireland.
Notable inclusions in the ODI squad are spinner Nqaba Peter and all-rounder Jason Smith, who are making their debut in the ODI setup. Meanwhile, fast bowler Lungi Ngidi returns to the squad after recovering from a calf injury and is set to play in all three formats.
Walter has opted to rest key players like Kagiso Rabada, David Miller, Marco Jansen, and Heinrich Klaasen. He emphasized the importance of building squad depth as the team prepares for upcoming ICC tournaments.
"We’ve chosen to give opportunities to some fringe players and those who have impressed recently. This decision aligns with our strategy to develop a broader player pool as we look ahead to the major tournaments in the next 18 months, including the 2027 50-over World Cup," said Walter.
The coach is eager to see how new and experienced players perform in different conditions, hoping this tour will provide valuable international exposure.
"I’m excited to see how some of the seasoned players lead while closely watching who can seize this chance to secure a more permanent spot in the national team," Walter added.
South Africa ODI Squad vs Afghanistan
Temba Bavuma (capt), 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
South Africa T20I Squad vs Ireland
Aiden Markram (capt), Ottneil Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Andile Simelane, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Lizaad Williams
South Africa ODI Squad vs Ireland
Temba Bavuma (capt), Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Bjorn Fortuin, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne, Lizaad Williams