South Africa Gears Up for Pakistan ODIs

South Africa has unveiled their strongest squad for the three-match ODI series against Pakistan, marking their final preparation opportunity ahead of the Champions Trophy next year. While a tri-series involving New Zealand and Pakistan is slated for February 2025, the proximity of those matches to the conclusion of the SA20 tournament on February 8 will limit the availability of first-choice players.

Key Inclusions and Notable Returns

The squad features nine additions from the team that played Ireland in the UAE, with prominent names like Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, and Tabraiz Shamsi making their return. Shamsi, who last played an ODI nearly a year ago, has rejoined after stepping away from a national contract in October to focus on league commitments.

Eighteen-year-old Kwena Maphaka, the standout bowler from this year’s Under-19 World Cup, earns his first call-up. Known for clocking speeds of up to 152 km/h, Maphaka’s inclusion also compensates for the unavailability of injured pacers Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Gerald Coetzee, Wiaan Mulder, and Nandre Burger.

Batting Firepower and Bowling Depth

Captain Temba Bavuma, back in form after recovering from an injury sustained against Ireland, is expected to open alongside Ryan Rickelton. Reeza Hendricks, who has struggled with consistency, has been left out. Tony de Zorzi adds another top-order option, while experienced batters Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen, and David Miller strengthen the middle order.

In the bowling department, Rabada leads a formidable pace attack, supported by Marco Jansen and Ottneil Baartman. Seam-bowling all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo provides versatility, while the spin duo of Maharaj and Shamsi adds variety.

Coach’s Perspective

Rob Walter, South Africa’s white-ball coach, expressed optimism about the squad, highlighting the blend of experience and young talent. 

"The bowling line-up features one of the fastest in the game in KG, and this series offers another great opportunity for a young talent like Kwena to come in and learn first-hand from the best," Rob Walter, South Africa's white-ball coach, said. "In the batting department, we are thrilled to welcome back David and Heinrich, two of the most destructive players in the game. Overall, we are very pleased with this squad."

A Packed Schedule

Bavuma, de Zorzi, Jansen, Maharaj, Markram, Rabada, Stubbs, and Rickelton face a quick turnaround, transitioning from the ODI series to the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan in just four days. South Africa needs one more Test victory to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final, adding extra pressure to their upcoming fixtures.

South Africa Squad for Pakistan ODI Series

Temba Bavuma (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen.

This series serves as a crucial test for South Africa’s ambitions in both ODI and Test cricket, with high stakes and a packed calendar ahead.