Bavuma, Rabada and Ngidi the kingpins in Proteas’ WTC final squad

Proteas head coach Shukri Conrad has chosen Proteas’ top batter Temba Bavuma to lead South Africa against Australia in the showpiece WCT final at Lord’s from 11-15 June.

South Africa’s trump card in recent years has been their pace attack, and Conrad has selected Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Marco Jansen and Dane Paterson as his pace bouquet. World-class spinner Keshav Maharaj is likely to start, while Senuran Muthusamy is in the squad as a spin backup for Maharaj. All-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Corbin Bosch will offer the coach added bowling variety in his final selection.  

Aside from Bavuma and Aiden Markram, the batting top-order choices offer plenty of talent, yet there is not an abundance of Test experience among Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham and wicketkeeper–batter Kyle Verreynne. 

“A key part of our success has been consistency in selection, and we’ve stuck with the core group of players who have been part of this WTC cycle. We’ve selected a balanced squad for the conditions we expect at Lord’s,” said Conrad. 

“I’m particularly pleased to welcome Lungi back in the side. He’s put in the work and offers us an experienced option with the ball.” 

The Proteas will meet in England at Arundel on 31 May for a warm-up match against Zimbabwe from 3-6 June ahead of their showpiece final. 

Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne.