SA selectors look for new blood
South Africa cricket is set to induct new players in their side.
SOUTH AFRICA: Lions left-arm spinner Aaron Phangiso and allrounder Chris Morris are expected to receive their first call-up to South Africa s Twenty20 squad, with the pugnacious Roelof van der Merwe tipped for a recall. Those are just three of the changes that could be made, as a new-look outfit has been promised for the three-match series against New Zealand.
South Africa last played in the shortest format at the World T20 in Sri Lanka in September, where they were knocked out in the group stage, and have since resolved to overhaul their T20 structures. The extent of that will be known tomorrow, when the squad is announced.
The first act of refurbishment was performed last week. National assistant coach Russell Domingo was promoted to the main job of the T20 side. Although Gary Kirsten will retain overall control, Domingo will take charge of the team for their five T20s this summer. It is his maiden voyage as an international coach and he will embark on it during a time of change.
"We are probably going to see a whole different look in the side. We are going to try a few youngsters here and there and there will definitely be a few new names. That s the way we want to go," AB de Villiers, the T20 captain said.
"We want to give youngsters performing at the domestic level a chance to showcase their talents. We might see a different side against New Zealand coming through. We ll follow the same kind of strategies but with new players, they will bring in different talents and skills, which is exciting.
I am not going to change my captaincy too much. I am still learning but I will still follow the same kinds of game plans. Russell is there, he might have a few new ideas. It s always good to change a bit, get something fresh in and am looking forward to it."
South Africa will go into the series without some of their heavyweights. Graeme Smith has not played international T20 cricket this year and is unlikely to be selected. Jacques Kallis made a comeback for the World T20 but is nursing a hamstring strain and will focus on preparing for the Tests.
JP Duminy is recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon and Dale Steyn may also be rested. Johan Botha, who has relocated to Australia, remains available for South Africa but will probably not be considered.
