Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced its squad for the 2024-25 season, with some notable changes and omissions. Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi have earned their maiden national contracts, while Andile Phehlukwayo makes a welcome return to the fold. The list excludes some established names like Dean Elgar, Quinton de Kock, Sisanda Magala, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, and Keegan Petersen, reducing it from 20 players to 18.
The absence of Anrich Nortje, who has been recovering from injury, and Quinton de Kock, who opted for participation in T20 leagues, is a significant talking point. Nortje’s focus remains on T20 cricket for the near future, with plans to return to ODIs later in the year, as per CSA’s director of cricket, Enoch Nkwe.
De Kock, currently active in the IPL, aims to participate in the T20 World Cup but recognizes the importance of strong performances for selection. Meanwhile, injuries have sidelined Magala and Parnell, and Petersen’s Test career is uncertain after two drops.
In contrast, CSA has rewarded Burger and de Zorzi with new contracts, recognizing their consistent contributions across formats. Phehlukwayo, rejoining the squad after last year’s exclusion, bolsters the team’s depth, having participated in the recent ODI World Cup.
The core of the contracted list remains stable, with Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram leading the Test and ODI sides, respectively. Notably, David Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne miss out on contracts.
The national women’s contracted squad sees an increase to 16 players, accommodating Eliz-Mari Marx and Ayanda Hlubi. However, former captain Dane van Niekerk, speculated to return ahead of the T20 World Cup, is not included in the current list.
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