December 18, 2024: South Africa has unveiled its Test squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan, set to begin on December 26 in Centurion. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and promising uncapped talents, with all-rounder Corbin Bosch and pace bowler Kwena Maphaka earning their places.
Corbin Bosch, an exciting all-round prospect, has been included in the squad for the first time. Bosch has shown considerable promise in first-class cricket, boasting a batting average of over 40 and a bowling average of 36.75. His well-rounded skills make him a valuable addition to South Africa’s Test squad.
Another notable inclusion is Kwena Maphaka, a rising star in South African cricket. Maphaka impressed with his performances in the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup earlier this year, finishing as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker with 21 scalps. The fast bowler also made his T20I debut for South Africa later in the year, marking his arrival on the international stage.
Wiaan Mulder, who missed the second Test against Sri Lanka earlier in the season due to a fractured finger, has been included in the squad after completing the final phase of his recovery. If Mulder is selected for the first Test, batter Matthew Breetzke will be released from the squad to make space.
Spinner Keshav Maharaj is also part of the squad, despite being sidelined by an acute groin strain ahead of the first ODI against Pakistan. Maharaj will undergo further tests to assess his fitness before the series, but his inclusion in the squad suggests South Africa is hopeful for his recovery.
South Africa’s red-ball coach, Shukri Conrad, reflected on the team’s focus heading into the series, particularly with a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final within reach. South Africa currently leads the WTC standings, and the two-match series against Pakistan represents a crucial opportunity to maintain their position.
“We head into this series with a clear focus, with a spot in the World Test Championship Final being the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow,” Conrad said. “We’ve selected a squad which gives us the best chance to achieve that. It’s an exciting time for South African cricket, and we’re particularly looking forward to this battle against Pakistan. They always pose a strong threat with the talented fast bowlers they produce, and I expect it to be no different this time around.”
The two-match series will kick off on December 26 in Centurion, with the second and final Test taking place in Cape Town from January 3. South Africa will be eager to secure a positive result to maintain their position atop the WTC standings and move closer to a spot in the Final.
With a squad full of talent and depth, South Africa will be looking to build on their strong position in the World Test Championship and take on Pakistan with confidence. The series promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams having a lot at stake.
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