Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has been appointed captain of South Africa’s T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against New Zealand. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced a 15-member squad that combines established names with a number of emerging players.
The series, scheduled from March 15 to March 26, will take place shortly after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup. With most of the World Cup squad returning home, only George Linde and Jason Smith from the global tournament group have been included alongside Maharaj for the New Zealand tour.
Head coach Shukri Conrad described the series as a valuable platform for the next generation to gain international exposure.
“With this series taking place directly after the T20 World Cup, the majority of that squad will return home. That creates a great opportunity for this group to step into the international environment and show what they’re capable of,” Conrad said.
Also Read: ICC announces umpire panel for Super 8 stage
He backed Maharaj’s leadership credentials, pointing to his previous captaincy experience and success in franchise cricket. “Keshav has captained the Proteas before and has led teams to SA20 finals. His leadership and calm presence make him the ideal person to guide this group.”
Conrad also highlighted the promise within the batting lineup, noting that Tony de Zorzi brings top-order experience, while Connor Esterhuizen, Dian Forrester and Jordan Hermann have impressed at domestic level with their attacking approach. Fast bowler Nqobani Mokoena, who caught attention during the SA20, has been identified as an exciting prospect ready for international exposure.
The squad includes five uncapped players, reflecting CSA’s focus on building depth ahead of future global tournaments. Meanwhile, South Africa’s main T20 World Cup side, led by Aiden Markram, has progressed to the Super 8 stage of the ongoing tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
South Africa T20I squad for New Zealand tour:
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.
