south africa Archives

David Miller Injury Deepens South Africa’s T20 World Cup Concerns

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by [email protected]

South Africa’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup have taken another hit as David Miller has been sidelined with an injury. Adding to the team’s growing list of worries. The experienced left-hander, known for his explosive finishing ability and calm presence in pressure situations, is a vital cog in the Proteas’ middle order.

David Miller injury comes at a crucial time, with South Africa already managing fitness issues around key players. His absence could disrupt team balance. Especially in close matches where his power-hitting and experience often turn games in South Africa’s favour. The team management is closely monitoring his recovery. With hopes that he can return to full fitness before the tournament begins.

As the T20 World Cup approaches, South Africa will be eager to stabilize their squad, finalize combinations, and ensure their star players are match-ready. Miller’s recovery will be a major talking point as the Proteas look to overcome injury setbacks and mount a strong challenge on the global stage.

Tristan Stubbs Misses Out on South Africa’s T20 World Cup Squad

Posted on January 3, 2026 by [email protected]

South Africa’s squad announcement for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has sparked discussion. After Tristan Stubbs was left out of the final selection. Despite being regarded as one of the most exciting young batters in South African cricket. Stubbs failed to secure a place in the Proteas’ World Cup plans.

The selectors opted for a balanced squad, prioritising experience, role clarity, and recent international performances. While Stubbs has impressed in franchise cricket around the world with his power-hitting ability and adaptability in the middle order. His limited opportunities and inconsistency at the international level appear to have worked against him.

South Africa’s think tank has leaned towards proven campaigners and players who fit specific tactical roles. Especially considering the conditions expected at the T20 World Cup. With a strong emphasis on all-round options, death bowling specialists, and experienced finishers, the competition for batting slots was intense. As a result, Stubbs narrowly missed out despite his undeniable potential.

Cricket analysts believe this omission could serve as motivation for the young batter to refine his game further and cement his place in future international squads. At just 24, Stubbs has time on his side and remains a key part of South Africa’s long-term plans, particularly in white-ball formats.

For now, the focus shifts to the selected squad as South Africa aims to finally break their T20 World Cup drought. Meanwhile, Tristan Stubbs will look to make a strong statement through upcoming domestic and franchise performances, keeping himself firmly in contention for future national call-ups.

LSG Send Bowlers to Durban for Training with SA20 Team

Posted on December 22, 2025 by [email protected]

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have taken a proactive step in their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League season by sending a group of their bowlers to Durban, South Africa, for a focused training stint with an SA20 franchise team. The move highlights LSG’s commitment to strengthening their bowling resources and ensuring players are well-prepared for high-intensity T20 cricket.

Durban offers ideal conditions for fast bowlers, with pitches that provide pace and bounce. Training in such an environment allows LSG’s bowlers to fine-tune their line and length, work on swing and seam movement, and develop effective variations for different phases of the game. The exposure is expected to be especially beneficial for improving death-over strategies and adaptability across conditions.

The collaboration with the SA20 setup gives LSG players access to experienced coaches and competitive net sessions against quality batters. Sharing knowledge with South African players, who are known for their strong pace-bowling culture, adds further value to the training program. These sessions are designed to replicate match situations, helping bowlers build confidence and tactical awareness.

Team management believes that overseas exposure plays a crucial role in modern cricket development. By training alongside an SA20 team, LSG’s bowlers gain insights into global T20 trends and innovative bowling plans that can be applied in the IPL. The franchise views this initiative as an investment in long-term performance rather than just short-term results.

As LSG aim to make a strong impact in the next IPL season, such targeted preparation could prove decisive. The Durban training stint not only enhances individual skills but also contributes to building a more cohesive and versatile bowling unit ready to face the challenges of the tournament.

No Place for Dane van Niekerk in South Africa’s Women’s World Cup Plans

Posted on September 3, 2025September 3, 2025 by [email protected]

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. But the absence of former captain Dane van Niekerk is the biggest talking point. Despite reversing her retirement earlier this year and participating in the team’s training camp. Van Niekerk has not been included in the final roster. Confirming that her return to international cricket will have to wait.

The squad, unveiled on September 3, 2025, will be led by Laura Wolvaardt, who has grown into one of the most consistent batters in women’s cricket. She will have the support of experienced names such as Marizanne Kapp, Chloé Tryon, Suné Luus, and Ayabonga Khaka. South Africa’s selectors have opted for a blend of experience and youth, signaling their confidence in a unit that has shown steady progress over the past two years.

For van Niekerk, however, the disappointment is clear. The 32-year-old all-rounder had retired from international cricket in March 2023 following a series of fitness-related controversies and selection snubs. At the time, she voiced her frustration with CSA’s strict fitness standards, particularly the much-debated 2 km run requirement. Which had kept her out of contention for major tournaments. But in mid-2025, she made a surprise U-turn, withdrawing her retirement and rejoining the national setup through a training camp in Durban.

Dane van Niekerk

It was believed that her return would provide her a chance to mend fences and regain her standing. At the squad announcement, CSA head coach Mandla Mashimbyi made it clear that van Niekerk was never assured a World Cup spot. She was taken to the camp to refresh herself with the expectations and team dynamic. Although this World Cup is too soon for her, there is yet hope. If she wants to make a full comeback, she knows what she has to do,” Mashimbyi said.

The omission reflects CSA’s desire to look forward with a settled core group. In van Niekerk’s absence, leadership within the squad will rely heavily on Wolvaardt and the senior trio of Kapp, Tryon, and Luus. The balance of the side looks strong, with a mix of batting depth, pace options, and spin resources that can adapt to varying conditions expected in the World Cup.

Van Niekerk’s international record remains highly impressive. With more than 100 ODI caps and a reputation as one of South Africa’s finest all-rounders. She played a pivotal role in putting the Proteas on the global women’s cricket map. Her absence from the World Cup, however, underscores the challenges of regaining form and fitness after stepping away from the international stage.

For now, South Africa will march into the tournament with a confident and well-rounded squad. The exclusion of van Niekerk may be disappointing for fans who hoped to see her experience bolster the side. But the team’s focus is firmly on building momentum and achieving their long-cherished dream of lifting a World Cup trophy.

As for van Niekerk, the message is clear: her international journey isn’t necessarily over. But she must prove her readiness once again to reclaim a place among the world’s elite.

Proteas Boost: Dane van Niekerk Ends Retirement Ahead of CWC 2025

Posted on August 25, 2025 by [email protected]

In a social media post on August 25 (Monday), former South African captain Dane van Niekerk declared that she had withdrawn her retirement from the game. During the 2024–25 season, the 32-year-old made her comeback to domestic cricket for Western Province. She was later added to the 20-member extended group for the August 25–September 1 pre-World Cup training camp in Durban.

“I’m happy to declare that I’ve made the decision to not retire from international cricket. The absence has made me realize how much I’ve missed representing my nation. I’m determined to do all in my power to have that chance again,” she posted on Instagram.

The former South Africa captain resigned in 2023 at the age of 29. After failing to satisfy the fitness standards needed to be selected for a home T20 World Cup squad. For the tournament, Sune Luus assumed the role of captain.

Van Niekerk played 194 games for South Africa, including 1 Test, 86 T20Is, and 107 ODIs. Throughout her international career, she scored 4074 runs and claimed 204 wickets. Additionally, she captained South Africa for 50 ODIs and 30 T20Is, winning 29 and 15 games, respectively.

During the Covid era, she suffered numerous injuries despite being a stalwart in South Africa. She missed the most of the 2020 season due to a lower back ailment. She was unable to compete in the 2022 ICC World Cup in New Zealand because of an ankle issue.

In addition to expressing regret to Cricket South Africa (CSA) for how she handled her retirement. Van Niekerk, now 32, expressed her desire to play for South Africa once more. I genuinely apologize to Cricket South Africa and the cricket community for my retirement. I am incredibly appreciative of the chance to perhaps showcase my abilities on a global level once more in the future.

South Africa will travel to Pakistan.

As a final preparation for the ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, South Africa will choose the side that will fly to Lahore for a three-match ODI series against hosts Pakistan from September 16 to 22. After the Durban training camp.

Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp, and Chloe Tryon. Who are all presently competing in the Hundred Competition, are not included in the 20-player camp.

South Africa Women’s training squad:

Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Anneke Bosch, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Luyanda Nzuza, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miane Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, and Dane van Niekerk

South Africa Rests Prenelan Subrayen for Final ODIs After Suspect Bowling Action Report

Posted on August 21, 2025 by [email protected]

Prenelan Subrayen, an all-rounder for South Africa, has been mentioned for suspect bowling behavior. After Tuesday’s first ODI in Cairns against Australia.

The offspinner dismissed opener Travis Head with a 98-run victory, taking 1 for 46 in his ten overs. South Africa now leads 1-0. Subrayen, 31, made his ODI debut nearly two months after earning his first Test cap in Bulawayo against Zimbabwe.

South Africa hopes Prenelan Subrayen can visit Cricket Australia’s National Cricket Centre in Brisbane. Where Australia’s left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann was tested earlier. This year, to complete an independent evaluation of his action at an ICC-accredited testing facility within 14 days.

When delivering the ball, bowlers are allowed to extend their elbows by 15 degrees. They can keep bowling in matches until the outcome of their test is known. Nevertheless, the team has decided that Subrayen will not participate until he has finished the testing process, South Africa coach Shukri Conrad stated on Thursday.

“I’m free to play,” Conrad replied. Playing is permitted until you are tested.

We simply felt that there was less noise that he was out of the spotlight, that he was safe, and that he had focused on the tests.

Our goal is to have him tested as quickly as possible, and we hope to do it in Brisbane. That works for everyone. We hope to receive it as soon as possible because we are traveling to the UK via Brisbane.

The Subrayen has previously come under fire for his behavior. After two independent examinations determined that his action was illegal. Cricket South Africa (CSA) placed him under rehabilitation in December 2012. In January 2013, he was cleared to bowl once more following retesting and corrective work.

Subrayen was banned from bowling after an assessment of his action found all of his deliveries above the 15-degree restriction in September 2014. During the Champions League T20 event in India and again during a domestic T20 match in November 2015. After his action was certified at the CSA’s High Performance Centre in March 2016. He was eventually allowed to continue bowling after failing a reassessment in January 2016.

Conrad stated he has experienced this technique before. “Never is it simple. He has been waiting a long time to make his debut, but we are supporting him. We’ll take it from there after a lot becomes known next week.

12 balls have been flagged by [the ICC] and sent to us. During the test, he must replicate those 12 balls. In order to motivate him and learn more about how these things operate. We will be sending our bowling coach, Piet Botha, along with him.

🏏 Keshav Maharaj Reclaims ICC ODI Bowling Crown with Fiery Five-Wicket Blitz Against Australia

Posted on August 20, 2025August 20, 2025 by [email protected]

South African spinner Keshav Maharaj has stormed back to the top of the ICC Men’s ODI Bowling Rankings. After a scintillating five-wicket haul against Australia, reaffirming his status as one of the most lethal spinners in world cricket.

In the opening ODI of the three-match series held at Cazalys Stadium in Cairns on August 19. Keshav Maharaj delivered a masterclass in spin bowling, claiming 5 wickets for just 33 runs in his 10-over spell. His performance dismantled Australia’s middle order, turning what looked like a promising chase into a dramatic collapse. From 60/0, the hosts crumbled to 89/6 within nine overs, thanks largely to Maharaj’s relentless accuracy and guile.

The 35-year-old left-arm orthodox spinner removed key batters including Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Aaron Hardie. His spell not only earned him the Player of the Match award. But also propelled South Africa to a commanding 98-run victory, setting the tone for the series.

This performance catapulted Maharaj to the No.1 spot in the ICC ODI Bowling Rankings, overtaking Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana and India’s Kuldeep Yadav. Maharaj now holds 687 rating points, reclaiming a position he briefly held in late 2023.

📈 Ranking Shake-Up

The latest rankings reflect a significant reshuffle. Kuldeep Yadav. Who had been holding the top spot, slipped to third due to India’s lack of ODI fixtures since the Champions Trophy. Theekshana now sits second with 671 points. Other notable movers include West Indies’ Jayden Seales. Who surged 17 places after a six-wicket haul against Pakistan, and Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed, who climbed 18 spots to joint-43rd.

Interestingly, despite not playing ODIs recently, Indian pacers Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj have all gained a spot each, now ranked 13th, 14th, and 15th respectively. Ravindra Jadeja remains India’s highest-ranked spinner at ninth with 616 points.

🧠 Keshav Maharaj’s Rise: A Testament to Consistency

Maharaj’s journey to the top has been marked by consistency and resilience. With 63 wickets in 49 ODIs at an average of 30.46 and an economy rate of 4.58, he has quietly built a reputation as a dependable match-winner. His latest feat also makes him only the fourth South African spinner to take a five-wicket haul in an ODI on Australian soil, joining the ranks of Nicky Boje, Imran Tahir, and Tabraiz Shamsi.

As South Africa looks to build momentum ahead of major tournaments, Maharaj’s resurgence offers a timely boost. His ability to control the middle overs and strike at crucial moments makes him an invaluable asset in the Proteas’ bowling arsenal.

With the series still in play, all eyes will be on Maharaj to see if he can maintain his dominance and help South Africa clinch the series against a formidable Australian side.

Kagiso Rabada will not play in the Australia ODIs.

Posted on August 19, 2025 by [email protected]

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will not play for South Africa in the ODI series against Australia. Which begins on August 19. The pacer is not playing because his right ankle is injured. According to reports, the 30-year-old had a scan on Monday, August 18, which verified the severity of the damage.

According to Cricket South Africa, he will now stay in Australia and get rehabilitation care under the guidance of the medical experts of the national team.

South Africa has selected the pace trio of Wiaan Mulder, Nandre Burger, and Lungi Ngidi for the opening match in Cairns. The next two games will take place in McKay on August 22 and 24.

In Australia, Markram and Bavuma are back to lead South Africa.

Posted on July 24, 2025July 24, 2025 by [email protected]

In August, South Africa is going on a white-ball tour to Australia. Which will be led by Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma. Markram was one of the few seniors given time off, while Bavuma has been sidelined since the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June due to a hamstring issue. They did not attend the two Test matches in Zimbabwe, and Markram did not play in the ensuing T20I tri-series there, which also featured New Zealand.

Head coach Shukri Conrad remarked, “It’s great to have our senior players back in the mix after their rest following the WTC Final.” As we continue to develop a solid core in all forms, their expertise and caliber truly benefit the group. From now on, each series contributes to the development of our teams for the 2027 home 50-over World Cup and the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Australia is a difficult country to visit. Their intensity and conditions will put us to the test in every department, and that’s precisely the kind of challenge we’re looking for.

South Africa T20I squad:

Aiden Markram (c), Corbin Bosch, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen, and Rassie van der Dussen

South Africa ODI squad:

Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Senuran Muthusamy, Keshav Maharaj, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Prenelan Subrayen

Following his recent Test debut in Zimbabwe, South Africa has also called up Prenelan Subrayen for the first time in both ODI and T20I. The Dolphins won the One-Day Cup earlier in March under the leadership of the off-spinner.

Additionally, Lhuan-dre Pretorius was included in the ODI squad for the first time. Over the past month, the hard-hitting batter. Who attracted attention in the T20 circuit, made his Test and T20I debuts in Zimbabwe. Both squads have included Brevis, who also made his Test debut in Zimbabwe.

In addition to these two, both teams include players like Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi, and Kagiso Rabada.

The three 50-over matches on August 19, 22, and 24. Will come after the T20Is on August 10, 12, and 16.

In spite of Sean Williams’ 137, South Africa’s lead grows.

Posted on June 30, 2025 by [email protected]

In the first Test in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s only fighting spark was still Sean Williams’ sixth Test century. A large 167-run lead was secured by the South Africans’ combination bowling effort. Which was led by Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, and Codi Yusuf. South Africa’s lead has increased to 216 runs by the end of Day 2.

After announcing their overnight total of 418 for 9. South Africa called Zimbabwe to bat first thing in the morning.

Takudzwanashe Kaitano chipped one to mid-wicket, and Codi Yusuf took his first Test wicket off his fifth delivery, putting the tourists right on the money right away. As he quickly took two wickets, Yusuf then got Nick Welch to push one behind to the ‘keeper. Brian Bennett, who just scored a century against England last month, sandwiched this by hitting three quick boundaries to maintain a strong scoring rate.

However, Bennett’s innings was ended when his helmet was struck by a bouncer from Kwena Maphaka. Due to a concussion, the right-hander was taken out. For the home team, it brought in the seasoned combo of Craig Ervine and Williams. Who stitched a partnership of 96 runs. Ervine approached with greater steadiness, but the latter got things started with two flat batted shots to the Maphaka barrier. Corbin Bosch and Yusuf battered the two hitters repeatedly. But they persevered before punishing the loose sounds. It gave the hosts a chance to recover a little before lunch.

Sean Williams

Keshav Maharaj put Williams down after lunch before he reached his fiftieth birthday, bringing the ship into balance for Zimbabwe. The left-arm spinner claimed his 200th Test wicket. When Ervine was stumped off Maharaj in the following over. After getting lucky with a streaking boundary over the slip trap. Wessley Madhevere, a new batsman, showed initiative by hitting threes early on and slog sweeping Maharaj for six.

Williams, who rocketed into the 80s, too relished playing the left-arm spinner with two boundaries as Zimbabwe reached the 150. The risky stand was broken at the end of the hour. When Prince Masvaure, the concussion substitute was brought to the crease by Mulder’s inswinger hitting Madhevere’s pads. However, as the hosts persisted in retaliating against South Africa, Williams reached his century. However, Masvaure lost the next ball, and Mulder scored his second. Tafadzwa Tsiga wasted no time in putting back-to-back boundaries off Mulder, much like those who came before him. However, Mulder’s strike in his subsequent over quickly destroyed his promising start.

Zimbabwe collapsed as a result, losing their final five wickets for an only fifty runs. Williams, the centurion was defeated and stumped by Maharaj. While Yusuf sent Wellington Masakadza back to the pavilion. Zimbabwe was dismissed on 251 after Mulder and Maharaj took the final two wickets for two runs.

However, Tanaka Chivanga made sure Matthew Breetzke returned early, and Zimbabwe refused to back down. The tourists are now 49 for 1 as Tony de Zorzi and Wiaan Mulder played out the remainder of the day before Stumps was called.

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