Kwena Maphaka Earns Proteas Call-Up After Stellar Year

Kwena Maphaka, the standout performer at the Under-19 World Cup, has earned a call-up to South Africa's senior team for their upcoming T20I series against West Indies. The 18-year-old fast bowler, who was named Player of the Tournament, has impressed with his pace and control, taking 21 wickets at an average of 9.71 in the tournament.

Maphaka's inclusion is a testament to his rapid rise in the cricketing world. He made his provincial debut for Lions just before the World Cup and was subsequently picked by Mumbai Indians for IPL 2024. His selection for the Proteas is a recognition of his exceptional talent and potential.

South Africa's squad for the West Indies series also includes Jason Smith, a middle-order batter who was Dolphins' top-scorer in the CSA T20 Challenge. The squad features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, with several regulars absent due to the recent T20 World Cup and upcoming CPL.

Quinton de Kock, who has not confirmed his international retirement, is the most notable absentee. Heinrich Klaasen, Anrich Nortje, David Miller, and Tabraiz Shamsi are also missing, while Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, and Marco Jansen are being rested.

Bjorn Fortuin, who was a reserve player at the T20 World Cup, will take on the main spin-bowling duties. Lungi Ngidi will lead the pace attack, supported by Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, and Lizaad Williams. Wiaan Mulder and Patrick Kruger provide seam-bowling allrounder options.

Rassie van der Dussen has been recalled after missing out on the T20 World Cup, but there is no room for Matthew Breetzke. Aiden Markram will continue to captain the side.

"This tour allows us to continue developing our player pool whilst maintaining the core of experienced players," said South Africa's white-ball coach Rob Walter. "It will also expose our emerging talent to quality international opposition."

The three matches will be played at the Brian Lara Stadium from August 23-27. South Africa will be looking to improve on their performance in their previous T20I series against West Indies in May, which they lost 0-3.

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