Cape Town [South Africa], August 24 (ANI): South Africa have named Bjorn Fortuin as their captain for the upcoming tour of Namibia, where the Proteas will compete in a T20I tri-series involving Namibia and Zimbabwe before playing a three-match ODI series against the hosts, according to the ICC website.
The tri-series will begin on August 28, with South Africa taking on Namibia at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek. The tournament will run until September 6, with the final scheduled for the same venue.
Duan Jansen, an all-rounder and twin brother of South Africa star Marco Jansen, has received his maiden international call-up after making a strong impression on the domestic circuit. The 26-year-old has been among the standout performers in both of South Africa's domestic white-ball competitions and played a crucial role in the Titans' title-winning 50-over campaign.
All-rounder Eathan Bosch is the other uncapped T20I player in the squad, while Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann and Nqobani Mokoena have earned their maiden ODI call-ups. Jordan will also be joined in the squad by his brother, Rubin Hermann.
South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad said the same squad was selected for both series to provide players with greater international exposure while maintaining balance across all departments. He highlighted the potential of Esterhuizen and Mokoena, welcomed Jordan Hermann's return from injury and praised Duan Jansen's domestic performances.
"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." said Conrad.
"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. 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," he added.
Conrad also backed Bjorn Fortuin to lead the side, citing his experience and successful captaincy with the Lions.
"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," he said.
South Africa's squad for their Namibia white-ball tour:
Bjorn Fortuin, Eathan Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Duan Jansen, Kwena Maphaka, Nqobani Mokoena, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Lutho Sipamla, Jason Smith (ruled out of the tri-series), and Prenelan Subrayen. (ANI)
Bjorn Fortuin to captain South Africa in Namibia tour
