South Africa have announced a 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, placing faith in a blend of experience, emerging talent and a formidable fast-bowling unit as they continue their search for a maiden title.
Aiden Markram will captain the Proteas for a second successive T20 World Cup, with Quinton de Kock returning to the international setup after reversing his retirement. The squad also welcomes back Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje, both returning after injury layoffs, significantly strengthening South Africa’s pace resources.
The batting group is anchored by de Kock and David Miller, supported by Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Jason Smith and Donovan Ferreira. The lineup offers a mix of power and adaptability, with several players capable of handling pressure situations that have previously tested South Africa at global events.
Rabada will spearhead a potent pace attack that includes Nortje, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch and teenage left-armer Kwena Maphaka. The selection highlights a clear emphasis on fast bowling depth, particularly suited to conditions expected across India and Sri Lanka.
Spin duties will be led by Keshav Maharaj, with George Linde providing support. Markram and Ferreira add further flexibility as part-time options, giving the team multiple combinations depending on match conditions.
Seven players in the squad are set to make their T20 World Cup debut, including Brevis, de Zorzi, Smith, Ferreira, Linde, Bosch and Maphaka. Several others bring experience from the 2024 edition, where South Africa reached the final before narrowly losing to India.
Notable absences include Tristan Stubbs, Gerald Coetzee and Tabraiz Shamsi, while Heinrich Klaasen has stepped away from international cricket. The selections underline a shift toward long-term planning alongside proven performers.
South Africa are placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, New Zealand, Canada and the United Arab Emirates. Having fallen just short in the previous tournament, the Proteas enter the 2026 campaign with renewed belief and a squad designed to challenge deep into the competition.
