South Africa recall big guns in their 16-man squad for IND vs SA 2024 T20 series
South Africa on Thursday announced their squad for the four-match T20I series against India, beginning November 8. After being rested for the assignments against the West Indies and Ireland, the first-choice players have returned to face Suryakumar Yadav and Co.
Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller and Keshav Maharaj were rested for the T20I series against the West Indies, who blanked the 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up 3-0. They didn't travel to the UAE as well for the white-ball series against Ireland. Pace bowlers Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee have also returned after nursing their niggles. Kagiso Rabada has been rested, while Lungi Ngidi was not considered for selection as he prepares for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka later in November.
Western Province's bowling all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana has received his maiden call-up after finishing the CSA T20 challenge with 12 wickets in eight outings at 14.08 apiece. Right-arm pacer Lutho Sipamla, who has played nine T20Is, has been picked for the third and fourth T20Is.
Durban will host the first game, followed by Gqeberha on November 10. The series will move to the Centurion on November 13, while Johannesburg will host the final match.
South Africa squad: Aiden Markram (c), Ottneil Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Patrick Kruger, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Mihlali Mpongwana, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Andile Simelane, Lutho Sipamla ( 3rd & 4th T20Is), Tristan Stubbs
India and South Africa played the 2024 T20 World Cup final
Meanwhile, the two sides will square off for the first time since the thrilling 2024 T20 World Cup final on June 29 in Barbados. Virat Kohli's half-century and Axar Patel's exploits guided India to 176 in 20 overs. Despite losing early wickets, the Proteas were on track to chase down the total and required 26 off 24 balls at one stage.
However, Jasprit Bumrah's outstanding bowling spell increased the pressure on South Africa, who needed 16 off the final over. The Proteas fell seven runs short as India sealed their second T20 World Cup title.