South Africa’s cricket coach Shukri Conrad has announced a 15-man squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, including three spin bowlers: Senuran Muthusamy, Keshav Maharaj, and Dane Piedt. In light of recent security assessments in Bangladesh, the matches will take place in Dhaka and Chattogram next month. The squad preparation is crucial for South Africa’s aspirations to qualify for the World Test Championship final, necessitating wins in five out of six remaining matches.
On Monday, Shukri Conrad, the head coach of South Africa, announced a squad of 15 players that includes three spin bowlers for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh scheduled for next month. This announcement coincided with the confirmation of the matches to be held in Dhaka and Chattogram. The decision to proceed followed a recent security assessment by a South African delegation, which took into account the political unrest in Bangladesh earlier this year resulting in over 200 fatalities due to protests. Senuran Muthusamy has been recalled to the squad for the first time since March 2023, joining fellow left-armer Keshav Maharaj and off-spinner Dane Piedt. The fast-bowling contingent consists of Kagiso Rabada, Nandre Burger, and Dane Paterson, along with seam-bowling all-rounder Wiaan Mulder. Coach Conrad indicated that, based on discussions with former Bangladesh head coach Russell Domingo, the team is likely to employ a maximum of three seamers in the conditions of Dhaka and Chattogram. “At this stage it is likely to be Kagiso, Nandre and Wiaan as the all-rounder, with Dane Paterson available if conditions are suitable,” stated Conrad. Furthermore, he remarked that it is probable only two spin bowlers will take the field. “We are lucky that Keshav Maharaj can bowl a lot of overs but Senuran will be there as back-up.” Lungi Ngidi is the only player to be omitted from the squad that played against the West Indies in August. Conrad expressed confidence that South Africa must win five of their remaining six Tests in the current World Test Championship to qualify for next year’s final in England. Following the series against Bangladesh, South Africa will face Sri Lanka and Pakistan in a two-match series during their home season in December and January. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Bangladesh, particularly after their recent victories, stating, “It will be Shakib Al Hasan’s last series and they will want to send him out on a high but we will be there to try to spoil the party.” The South African squad is set to convene in Pretoria on October 12 ahead of their departure for Bangladesh on October 15. South African Squad: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton (wkt) and Kyle Verreynne (wkt). Fixtures: First Test: October 21-25, Dhaka Second Test: October 29-November 2, Chattogram.
The decision by the South African cricket coach to include three spin bowlers in the squad for the Tests in Bangladesh is a strategic move reflecting the country’s focus on adapting to conditions that are traditionally more conducive to spin bowling. Given the recent political situation in Bangladesh that raised security concerns, the readiness of the team to engage in competitive play highlights the resilience of South African cricket. The emphasis on needing to perform well in these matches is also tied to the broader context of the World Test Championship, where South Africa aims to secure a place in the final. Furthermore, the presence of seasoned players like Keshav Maharaj and the young talent of Senuran Muthusamy indicates a balanced approach towards experience and new talent in the spin department.
In summary, South Africa’s decision to field three spinners in their squad for the forthcoming Test series against Bangladesh underscores their preparedness to face the local conditions effectively. The team’s need for five victories in their remaining Tests to reach the World Championship final speaks to the stakes of the series. With a robust squad featuring both seasoned and emerging players, South Africa aims to confront a competent Bangladesh team, particularly in light of their recent success in international cricket.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
