T20 World Cup 2026: Can Markram-led SA break trophy jinx?
What's the story
The South African cricket team is gearing up for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup with a promising squad. South Africa, the 2024 runners-up, will begin their campaign on February 9 against Canada in Ahmedabad. Led by Aiden Markram, the Proteas have enough firepower to reach the last four. However, can South Africa break their white-ball trophy jinx?
Team composition
South Africa's T20 World Cup squad
In January, South Africa lost Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira due to injuries. Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs were named as their replacements. Final squad: Aiden Markram (captain), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, and Tristan Stubbs.
Strengths
Pace attack, SA's major ammunition
South Africa's pace attack is a major strength, with Rabada providing strike power and leadership. Nortje brings high pace and intimidation, while Ngidi poses a heavy wicket-taking threat. Jansen's left-arm angle adds another dimension to the bowling unit. While de Kock provides stability at the top, Brevis and Stubbs are middle-overs disruptors who can break spin plans. Miller's reliable finishing skills are always a plus.
Weakness
What are their weaknesses?
South Africa have covered their finger-spin base well with Keshav Maharaj and George Linde in the ranks. Barring this, the Proteas lack a potent wrist-spinner, usually an x-factor in the Asian conditions. Furthermore, in case of a batting collapse, the price tag on Miller's wicket will rise. As has been the case, the likes of Stubbs and Brevis can throw away their wickets to accelerate.
Information
SA's likely XI for first game
SA's likely XI: Quinton de Kock (wicket-keeper), Aiden Markram (captain), Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Anrich Nortje.