Fortuin handed captaincy as South Africa unveil fresh faces for Namibia tour
Johannesburg, Aug 11
South Africa have opted for a blend of experience and domestic form for their upcoming white-ball assignment in Namibia, with spinner Bjorn Fortuin named captain of a 15-member squad that will contest a T20I tri-series and a historic ODI series later this month.
The Proteas will first meet Namibia and Zimbabwe in the T20I tri-series, scheduled from August 28 to September 6 at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek. The squad will then remain in the Namibian capital for three ODIs against the hosts from September 9 to 13, marking the first bilateral 50-over series between South Africa and Namibia.
Fortuin, who has previously led the Lions, will take charge of the side as South Africa look to give several players an opportunity to strengthen their international credentials.
Head coach Shukri Conrad said the decision to retain one group across both formats was designed to provide continuity while widening the team's pool of international experience.
"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. 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."
The tour will also provide a significant opportunity for domestic performers. Duan Jansen has received his maiden senior call-up after an outstanding 2025/26 campaign, during which he was named Division 1 One Day Cup Player of the Year and helped the Titans lift the title with an unbeaten 61 in the final against the Lions.
Eathan Bosch is the other uncapped T20I player, while Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann and Nqobani Mokoena have been included in an ODI squad for the first time.
"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. 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. It is always exciting to play against our neighbouring countries, and the first-ever ODI series between South Africa and Namibia adds further significance, especially as we build towards next year's World Cup," he added.
Nationally contracted players Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi and Kwena Maphaka add further experience to the squad.
The Proteas are scheduled to leave OR Tambo International Airport for Windhoek on August 25.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting to see Bjorn Fortuin as captain! He's been consistent in domestic cricket. This Namibia tour is perfect for testing young talent before the World Cup. 👏
Finally South Africa is focusing on developing players beyond the big names. Duan Jansen's inclusion after that domestic season is well deserved. Though I feel they could have included a few more senior players for balance.
First-ever ODI series between SA and Namibia! Great for African cricket. Hope this encourages more bilateral series between African nations. Cricket needs to grow beyond the usual teams. 🇿🇦🇳🇦
This is a smart strategy from coach Shukri Conrad. Mixing experienced players like Brevis and de Zorzi with newcomers gives the young players confidence. The T20I tri-series with Zimbabwe and Namibia will be competitive too.
Happy to see Eathan Bosch get a call-up! He's been performing well domestically for a while. Hope he gets a proper chance in the playing XI. All the best to the Proteas! 🏏
While I appreciate the intention to develop depth, I'm a bit skeptical about sending a largely second-string side even for a series against Namibia. Winning matters too, and we've seen how such experiments
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