Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a new 15-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, with experienced left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj as the captain. The five-match series begins on March 15, shortly after the current ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, indicating a quick transition for the team.
Keshav Maharaj to lead a balanced squad
Maharaj, recognized for his strategic mindset, will lead a squad that combines experienced players with rising talent. With many key players moving directly from World Cup responsibilities to franchise commitments, selectors have decided to rest some of the prominent names.
Only three players currently participating in the World Cup — Maharaj, George Linde, and Jason Smith — will continue to New Zealand. This choice demonstrates careful management of player workloads, especially with the IPL starting soon after the series ends on March 25.
This opportunity allows Maharaj to further demonstrate his leadership skills in T20 cricket. Having guided domestic and franchise teams before, he takes on a national role as South Africa looks to refresh its T20 lineup.
New players join the squad
The series will be unique for five uncapped players receiving their first International call-ups: Connor Esterhuizen, Dian Forrester, Jordan Hermann, Eathan Bosch, and Nqobani Mokoena.
There are notable family ties among the players. Jordan Hermann will join his brother Rubin Hermann, and Eathan Bosch follows his brother Corbin Bosch. These sibling connections add a personal touch to the squad selection, showcasing the depth of talent in South Africa’s cricketing community.
Among the newcomers, 19-year-old Nqobani Mokoena stands out, having impressed during the 2026 SA20 season as a top wicket-taker for Paarl Royals. His selection highlights South Africa’s commitment to develop emerging talent in international conditions.
Pace attack bolstered
Fast bowlers Ottneil Baartman and Gerald Coetzee, who were not part of the World Cup squad, have been brought back to strengthen the pace bowling. Their return indicates an intent to experiment with different bowling options ahead of a busy international schedule.
Tony de Zorzi also makes his comeback after injury, bringing stability to the top of the batting order. With experienced players like Lutho Sipamla, Prenelan Subrayen, and Andile Simelane, the squad is positioned to explore new combinations while remaining competitive.
South Africa squad for New Zealand T20Is: Keshav Maharaj (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Eathan Bosch, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen, Dian Forrester, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, George Linde, Nqobani Mokoena, Andile Simelane, Lutho Sipamla, Prenelan Subrayen, Jason Smith.
