Gerald Coetzee Makes Comeback In The Squad As South Africa Announce Playing XI For ODI Tri-Series In Pakistan

February 5, 2025: After recovering from a left hamstring injury, South African seamer Gerald Coetzee is making his return to the national squad for the upcoming ODI tri-series in Pakistan.

The 12-man squad, named by white-ball coach Rob Walter, includes Coetzee, who will be aiming to make a strong impact following his injury layoff. The series marks Coetzee’s return to international action after he last played for South Africa during the Test series against Sri Lanka on November 27, 2024.

The opening match of the ODI tri-series will also see South Africa fielding a host of fresh faces, with six uncapped players named in the squad. These include Meeka-eel Prince, Gideon Peters, Eathan Bosch, and Mihali Mpongwana, while Matthew Breetzke, who has represented South Africa in Test and T20I formats, and Senuran Muthusamy, who has played in four Test matches, round out the new additions.

The squad for the first match, scheduled for February 10 against New Zealand, will remain fluid, as updates will follow the conclusion of the ongoing SA20 league. Key players such as Keshav Maharaj and Heinrich Klaasen are expected to join the team starting from the second match of the series.

The tri-series begins with a match between New Zealand and Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium on February 8, with South Africa facing New Zealand on February 10. Afterward, the action moves to Karachi, where Pakistan will take on South Africa on February 12. The final of the tri-series is scheduled for February 14, just days before the ICC Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19.

The tri-series will serve as a valuable preparation for South Africa ahead of the Champions Trophy, providing a key opportunity for the team to fine-tune their skills and build momentum before the prestigious tournament.