Mumbai Indians youngster earns maiden national call-up for South Africa versus West Indies T20I series

The South African selectors named the team that is set to play West Indies in a short T20I series. Mumbai Indians pace bowler Kwena Maphaka has been included in the team to give the left-arm pacer his first call to the national side. 

Aiden Markram has been named the captain of the side which has two other new faces in Patrick Kruger and Jason Smith. The likes of David Miller, Quinton De Kock, Heinrich Klaasen, and Kagiso Rabada have been rested. 

South Africa will be playing in the West Indies for the first time since their heartbreaking loss to India in the T20 World Cup title. The new team led by Aiden Markram will give them a chance to get ready for a massive season ahead which also includes a series against India. 

South African coach speaks about new names in the team 

Rob Walter the coach of the South African team addressed the media after the T20I team was announced. One of the names that caused excitement is that of young Mumbai Indians pace sensation Kwena Maphaka. 

The South African coach said, “Several players were not considered for this series due to either injury, being in a conditioning block that is related to workload management, or their participation in ongoing T20 leagues.”

“We’re excited to have Jason [Smith] and Kwena [Maphaka] join the squad for this series. Jason’s recent performances have been impressive, and his ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds valuable depth to our line-up.” Rob Walter was heard speaking about the two new teams on the side. 

The Proteas coach also added, “Kwena has been identified as a player with significant potential, and this tour presents a great opportunity to include him in the Proteas environment and gain valuable international experience.”

South African squad for T20I series versus West Indies 

Aiden Markram (c), Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, and Lizaad Williams.