Fortuin will lead a squad featuring several uncapped players in the T20I tri-series and ODI series against Namibia….reports Africa Daily News Desk
South Africa have appointed Bjorn Fortuin as captain for their upcoming white-ball tour of Namibia, where the Proteas will play a T20I tri-series involving Namibia and Zimbabwe before facing the hosts in a three-match ODI series.
The T20I tri-series will begin on August 28, with South Africa taking on Namibia at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek. The tournament will run until September 6, with the final also scheduled to be played in Windhoek.
The tour will see all-rounder Duan Jansen receive his maiden international call-up after a strong run in domestic cricket. The 26-year-old, twin brother of South Africa star Marco Jansen, has impressed in both of the country’s domestic white-ball competitions and played a key role in the Titans’ title-winning 50-over campaign.
All-rounder Eathan Bosch is the other uncapped T20I player in the squad, while Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann and Nqobani Mokoena have received their maiden ODI call-ups. Jordan Hermann will also be joined by his brother Rubin Hermann in the squad.
South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad said the same group had been selected for both series to provide players with greater international exposure while maintaining balance across all departments.
“We’ve selected one squad for both series as we feel we have all departments well covered and it provides a great opportunity for players to build on their international caps,” Conrad said.
He also highlighted the potential of Esterhuizen and Mokoena, welcomed Jordan Hermann’s return from injury and praised Duan Jansen’s domestic performances.
“We saw glimpses of what Connor and Nqobani can offer during the T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year. It was unfortunate that Jordan picked up an injury in the opening match of that series, so we’re looking forward to seeing him get another opportunity at this level,” Conrad said.
“This tour has also opened the door for players who have performed domestically. Duan is one of those players. He is a quality all-rounder who has also shown great character for the Titans,” he added.
Backing Fortuin’s appointment as captain, Conrad pointed to his experience and leadership record with the Lions.
“Bjorn is an experienced player and proven leader who has successfully captained the Lions, and we have every confidence in his ability to lead this group,” he said.
South Africa squad: Bjorn Fortuin (captain), Eathan Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Duan Jansen, Kwena Maphaka, Nqobani Mokoena, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Lutho Sipamla, Jason Smith (ruled out of the tri-series), and Prenelan Subrayen.
