South Africa Announce Squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Overview

South Africa have revealed their 15 player squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has returned after injury, while several senior players have been left out. The team blends experience with young talent for conditions in India and Sri Lanka.

South Africa celebrate a wicket during a T20 international match.
Image Source: Instagram/@proteasmencsa —Edited & Modified by Us

South Africa have officially named their 15 member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka. The biggest headline is the return of star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, who is back after recovering from a rib injury.

Several established names, however, have been left out, showing that the selectors have focused on form, fitness, and future potential.

Rabada Returns After Injury Layoff

Rabada had been sidelined for nearly ten weeks due to a rib injury. After making a successful comeback in the SA20 League, where he took two wickets for MI Cape Town, he has regained his place as the leader of South Africa bowling attack.

His return significantly strengthens the pace department ahead of the global event.

Fast Bowlers and New Faces in the Squad

Along with Rabada, South Africa have selected:

• Anrich Nortje
• Lungi Ngidi
• Marco Jansen
• Corbin Bosch
• Kwena Maphaka

Seven players will be playing their first ever T20 World Cup, including:

• Dewald Brevis
• Tony de Zorzi
• Jason Smith
• George Linde
• Donovan Ferreira
• Corbin Bosch
• Kwena Maphaka

This shows a clear shift toward building a future ready squad while maintaining balance.

Aiden Markram to Lead the Side

Regular T20 captain Aiden Markram will lead the team. Only seven players from the squad that reached the 2024 T20 World Cup final have been retained this time.

Experienced players such as Quinton de Kock, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, and Anrich Nortje are also part of the squad.

Notable Omissions

Several big names have been left out:

• Heinrich Klaasen (retired)
• Reeza Hendricks
• Ryan Rickelton
• Tristan Stubbs
• Ottniel Baartman
• Gerald Coetzee
• Bjorn Fortuin
• Tabraiz Shamsi

Selection convener Patrick Moroney admitted that tough decisions had to be made but expressed confidence in the squad ability to succeed in Asian conditions.

Spin Options and Team Balance

South Africa will rely on Keshav Maharaj and George Linde as frontline spinners, while Markram and Ferreira provide off spin options. This gives the team flexibility on spin friendly pitches in India and Sri Lanka.

Preparation and Group Matches

This will be head coach Shukri Conrad first white ball World Cup in charge. After completing their SA20 commitments, South Africa will play three T20Is against West Indies before heading to India.

South Africa will begin their campaign on 9 February against Canada and will also face:

• Afghanistan
• New Zealand
• United Arab Emirates
• Canada

They are placed in Group D of the tournament.

South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 Squad

• Aiden Markram (Captain)
• Corbin Bosch
• Dewald Brevis
• Quinton de Kock (Wicketkeeper)
• Tony de Zorzi
• Donovan Ferreira
• Marco Jansen
• George Linde
• Keshav Maharaj
• Kwena Maphaka
• David Miller
• Lungi Ngidi
• Anrich Nortje
• Kagiso Rabada
• Jason Smith

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will start on 7 February, with the final scheduled for 18 March.

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