Johannesburg - Cricket South Africa (CSA) has unveiled the highly anticipated Proteas squads set to clash against India in a blockbuster all-format series, known as the Freedom Series, slated from 10th December to 7th January.

The high-stakes tour encompasses three KFC T20 Internationals (T20Is), three Betway One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and two Betway Test matches, promising an action-packed battle between the cricketing giants.

Excitingly, the squads feature fresh talent and strategic inclusions. Western Province's rising stars Mihlali Mpongwana, David Bedingham, and Nandre Burger have received their maiden call-ups to the national setup. Burger's sensational all-round performances this season earned him spots in all three squads, while Bedingham earned his place in the Test squad. Mpongwana's stellar showing in the CSA Division 1 One-Day Cup solidified his spot in the ODI squad after a standout performance in October's final against North West Dragons.

Adding more firepower, Dafabet Warriors' Tristan Stubbs makes his Test squad debut, showcasing his prowess with an impressive 130 against DP World Lions in the recent CSA 4-Day Domestic Series.

The return of Province's wicket-keeper Kyle Verreynne bolsters the ODI and Test squads. Verreynne's stellar performances in domestic competitions, including leading Province to the One-Day Cup title and a splendid show in the four-day competition, secured his place.

Key exclusions, including ODI captain Temba Bavuma and Kagiso Rabada, from the white-ball leg aim to prioritize red-ball cricket, focusing on the upcoming Test series. This strategic move paves the way for new talents to shine on the international stage.

However, the absence of Momentum Multiply Titans' fast bowler Lizaad Williams due to a groin strain casts a shadow over the team's preparations. His fitness will be assessed further this week. Meanwhile, Anrich Nortje and Wayne Parnell continue their rehabilitation, ruled out due to lower back stress fracture and a left shoulder injury, respectively.

The Proteas T20I squad boasts talent with Aiden Markram leading the team, featuring a formidable lineup including Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, and the seasoned David Miller, among others. The ODI squad, led by Markram, showcases a blend of experience and fresh talent with the likes of Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen.

Test head coach Shukri Conrad expressed confidence in the near full-strength Test squad, aiming for a strong start in the new ICC World Test Championship cycle against India in South Africa.

As the excitement builds for this epic showdown, the tour itinerary promises thrilling encounters across various iconic cricketing venues. The series kicks off in Durban on 10th December, setting the stage for a riveting battle between these cricketing powerhouses.

The Proteas gear up to defend their pride on home soil against a formidable Indian team in a series anticipated to deliver enthralling cricketing action, setting the stage for a memorable clash between bat and ball.

Tour itinerary

KFC T20I Series

Sunday, 10 December
South Africa vs India - Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban

Tuesday, 12 December
South Africa vs India – Dafabet St George’s Park, Gqeberha

Thursday, 14 December
South Africa vs India - DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

Betway ODI Series

Sunday, 17 December - Betway Pink Day
South Africa vs India - DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

Tuesday, 19 December
South Africa vs India – Dafabet St George’s Park, Gqeberha

Thursday, 21 December
South Africa vs India - Boland Park, Paarl

Betway Test Series

26 December – 30 December
South Africa vs India - SuperSport Park, Centurion

03 January – 07 January
South Africa vs India - Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town


[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]