South Africa announce 15-member squad for 2019 World Cup
What's the story
The South African 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019 was announced on Thursday. The team looks settled and a strong one on paper. The only surprising inclusion was that of Hashim Amla, who has struggled with the bat since a while. The selectors had to leave out promising Reeza Hendricks in return. Here's more.
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Here's the 15-member South African squad
South Africa squad: Faf du Plessis (c), Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock (wk), Hashim Amla, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, JP Duminy, Dwaine Pretorius, Dale Steyn, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Imran Tahir, Tabraiz Shamsi.
Openers
A solid opening force on offer for South Africa
South Africa have a desired opening department with some star players on the mix. Aiden Markram, wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock provide the shield alongside veteran Amla. Notably, De Kock had a productive ODI bilateral series against Sri Lanka recently. He has been in good touch in IPL 2019 as well. SA will need to choose between Amla and Markram to open alongside De Kock.
Batting
Skipper Faf du Plessis leads an experience middle order
The versatile Rassie van der Dussen is someone who adds depth in the middle. Skipper Faf du Plessis will be the main force of this batting line-up. His consistency and form could determine the side's success. JP Duminy and David Miller are strong names in terms of experience. A lot will revolve around the trio as far SA are concerned.
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Here are the all-rounders
Dwaine Pretorius and Andile Phehlukwayo offer all-round options. Both are pace-bowling all-rounders and can add substantial influence. Duminy is the spin all-rounder of this side. Pretorius has been in strong form in recent times and could be the go to option.
Bowlers
SA's biggest strength is their world class bowling
SA have some daunting names in the bowling department. Dale Steyn and Kagiso Rabada are the superstars of this unit. Both will hold the cards in the World Cup. Lungi Ngidi and Anrich Nortje will look to add a lot of support. In-form Imran Tahir is their main spinner and perhaps a big threat. SA have selected Tabraiz Shamsi as the second spin option.