Uncapped Pacer, All-Rounder Added to South Africa Squad for Pakistan Test Series

South Africa has named uncapped pacer Kwena Maphaka and all-rounder Corbin Bosch in their 16-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan, beginning on December 26 in Pretoria.

The Proteas have opted to give Wiaan Mulder time to prove his fitness ahead of the series.

The squad, selected by head coach Shukri Conrad, includes the 18-year-old fast bowler Maphaka, who is yet to make his debut in international cricket.

“We’ve brought Corbin into the squad for his all-round skills with both bat and ball. His pace will strengthen our attack, and we’re eager to see him step up to Test cricket,” said Conrad. Bosch, 30, is the son of former South African seamer Tertius Bosch, who made his sole Test appearance in 1992 against the West Indies before tragically passing away in 2000 due to Guillain-Barré syndrome.

All-rounder Mulder, who missed South Africa’s second Test win over Sri Lanka earlier this month due to a fractured finger, remains crucial for the team’s chances in the World Test Championship.

Keshav Maharaj, the spinner who withdrew from the first ODI against Pakistan due to a groin strain, has been named in the squad.

Conrad added, “We’re closely monitoring Keshav’s recovery and hope the injury isn’t too serious.” Senuran Muthusamy is the only other specialist spinner in the squad, with the Centurion Park pitch likely to favor seamers.

South Africa, currently leading the World Test Championship standings, needs to win at least one of the two Tests in this series to secure their spot in the final at Lord’s next June. The second Test will begin on January 3 in Cape Town.

South Africa Squad

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