Nashua Titans fast bowler Dale Steyn has been included in the Proteas squad for the Standard Bank International Pro20 as well as the three-match MTN one-day international (ODI) series against New Zealand.
The Phalaborwa express replaces Justin Kemp in the only change to the squad that won the ODI series in Pakistan. Morne van Wyk has been placed on standby for Herschelle Gibbs for the ODI series only. Gibbs suffered a knee injury during the second Castle Test that finished on Sunday.
”With the number of all-rounders in our squad we are happy with the depth we have to our batting,” commented selection convener Joubert Strydom on the decision to replace a batting all-rounder with a specialist bowler. ”Dale gives us an exciting extra option as a wicket-taking bowler.
”The squad has earned a full vote of confidence from its excellent series win in Pakistan.
”Van Wyk did well as a stand-in for Graeme Smith during the ODI tour to Ireland in June and gets another opportunity.”
Proteas squad: Graeme Smith (Nashua Cape Cobras, captain), Herschelle Gibbs (Nashua Cape Cobras), Jacques Kallis (Nashua Cape Cobras), AB de Villiers (Nashua Titans), JP Duminy (Nashua Cape Cobras), Mark Boucher (Nashua Cape Cobras), Shaun Pollock (Nashua Dolphins), Albie Morkel (Nashua Titans), Vernon Philander (Nashua Cape Cobras), Johan Botha (Chevrolet Warriors), Andre Nel (Nashua Titans), Charl Langeveldt (Nashua Cape Cobras), Makhaya Ntini (Chevrolet Warriors), Dale Steyn (Nashua Titans). On standby: Morne van Wyk (Gestetner Diamond Eagles).
The Proteas assemble on Thursday morning and will practise at Liberty Life Wanderers Stadium at 2pm. — Sapa
Fixtures:
Friday November 23: Standard Bank International Pro20, Liberty Life Wanderers Stadium
Sunday November 25: 1st MTN ODI, Sahara Stadium Kingsmead
Friday November 30: 2nd MTN ODI, Sahara Oval St George’s
Sunday December 2: 3rd MTN ODI, Sahara Park Newlands