Teen fast bowler Maphaka earns maiden Proteas call-up

JOHANNESBURG - The Proteas have handed a maiden call-up to 18-year-old fast bowler, Kwena Maphaka, for their T20 International series against the West Indies this month.

The left-arm seamer was the standout performer at this year’s Under-19 World Cup on home soil, where he was named as the Player of the Tournament after picking up 21 wickets.

Maphaka and Dolphins all-rounder Jason Smith are the only newcomers to the 15-man squad that was named by white-ball head coach, Rob Walter. 

"We’re excited to have Jason and Kwena join the squad for this series. Jason’s recent performances have been impressive, and his ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds valuable depth to our line-up. Kwena has been identified as a player with significant potential, and this tour presents a great opportunity to include him in the Proteas environment and gain valuable international experience," Walter said

Spinner Nqaba Peter who made his international debut against the West Indies in May, has been ruled out of the series as he is in the final phase of his recovery from a shoulder injury.

Walter has indicated that he’ll use the series to grow the pool of players he can select from in the future. Several players who took part in the T20 World Cup in June have been rested for this series. 

South Africa T20I squad against West Indies:

Aiden Markram (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelto, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen and Lizaad Williams.

T20I Series Fixtures:

Friday, 23 August at 21:00 SAST

West Indies vs South Africa - Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago 
 
Sunday, 25 August at 21:00 SAST

West Indies vs South Africa - Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago 
 
Tuesday, 27 August at 15:00 21:00 SAST

West Indies vs South Africa - Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad and Tobago