South Africa Names 15-Man Squad for T20I Series Against New Zealand

Posted : 21 February 2026

The South African Men’s selection panel has unveiled a 15-player squad for the upcoming five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, scheduled from 15 to 25 March. Keshav Maharaj will captain the team, which features five uncapped players, offering a fresh mix of experience and emerging talent.

Among the newcomers are batters Connor Esterhuizen (DP World Lions), Dian Forrester (Auto Investments North West Dragons), and Jordan Hermann (Dafabet Warriors), all recognized for their consistent performances in domestic T20 competitions.

Allrounder Eathan Bosch (Hollywoodbets Dolphins) and fast bowler Nqobani Mokoena (Paarl Royals) also earn their first senior call-ups. Nineteen-year-old Mokoena impressed in the Betway SA20 as one of the tournament’s leading wicket-takers, building anticipation for his international debut.

Maharaj is one of three players in the squad who recently participated in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, alongside left-arm spinner George Linde (World Sports Betting Western Province) and Jason Smith (Dolphins). Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee returns to the T20I side for the first time since playing against Namibia in October 2025, while batter Tony de Zorzi rejoins after recovering from a right hamstring injury.

The series will feature double-headers, with the Proteas Women playing in the afternoon and the men following in the evening across all five matches, marking the first time the senior national teams have shared such a schedule.

Proteas Men’s head coach Shukri Conrad highlighted the importance of this tour: “With this series taking place directly after the T20 World Cup, most of that squad will return home, creating a great opportunity for this group to step into the international environment and show what they can do.

Keshav’s leadership experience, having led two teams to the SA20 finals, makes him the ideal captain for this tour. The batting unit is particularly exciting, with Tony bringing experience and Connor, Dian, and Jordan capable of aggressive, positive cricket.

Nqobani demonstrated in SA20 that he is a young quick who can make an impact, and this series will expose him to the international setup. Touring New Zealand will challenge their skills in different conditions, and playing alongside the Proteas Women in double-headers adds to the excitement.”

South Africa Names 15-Man Squad for T20I Series Against New Zealand

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