Kwena Maphaka and Corbin Bosch Included in the 16-Man Squad
South Africa has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, starting December 26 in Centurion. With several frontline fast bowlers sidelined due to injuries, the Proteas have called up two uncapped pacers, Kwena Maphaka and Corbin Bosch, to bolster their bowling attack.
Eighteen-year-old left-arm seamer Kwena Maphaka, who has already debuted in T20 internationals, is set to take on a bigger role in the longest format. Meanwhile, 30-year-old Corbin Bosch, son of former Test fast bowler Tertius Bosch, could make his first senior international appearance. Bosch, known for his strong batting skills, boasts a first-class batting average of over 40.
Injury Concerns Impact Team Selection
South Africa’s squad includes all-rounder Wiaan Mulder and left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, but their participation is uncertain due to injuries. Mulder is recovering from a broken middle finger sustained during the first Test against Sri Lanka, while Maharaj suffered an acute groin strain during the warm-up for the first ODI against Pakistan in Paarl. A scan will determine Maharaj’s fitness for the series.
Should Mulder be unavailable, Bosch might fill the all-rounder role. In the spin department, Senuran Muthusamy, another left-arm option, remains the only back-up if Maharaj is ruled out.
Depleted Bowling Resources
The Proteas’ fast-bowling unit is severely depleted, with Anrich Nortje, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, and Lizaad Williams all sidelined. Maharaj’s potential absence would be another significant blow to South Africa, particularly as they aim to secure a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final.
Focused on WTC Final Spot
South African head coach Shukri Conrad emphasized the team’s determination heading into the series. “Our focus is clear: securing a spot in the World Test Championship final. This series is crucial, and every player knows the importance of the task ahead,” Conrad stated in a Cricket South Africa release.
Full Squad for Pakistan Test Series
Temba Bavuma (captain)
David Bedingham
Corbin Bosch
Matthew Breetzke
Tony de Zorzi
Marco Jansen
Keshav Maharaj
Kwena Maphaka
Aiden Markram
Wiaan Mulder
Senuran Muthusamy
Dane Paterson
Kagiso Rabada
Ryan Rickelton
Tristan Stubbs
Kyle Verreynne
Series Fixtures
1st Test: December 26-30, Centurion
2nd Test: January 3-7, Cape Town
South Africa needs to win at least one of the two Tests to secure their place in the 2024 World Test Championship final.
