New blood could help Proteas bloom

• Published date: 26 April 2024
• Publication title: Mercury

The heartache and pain has been tangible from South Africa’s very first participation in the 50-over competition in Australia and New Zealand in 1992

They haven’t ever gone past the semi-final stage, but have yet another chance to turn the tables in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the US and the West Indies.

The event starts on June 2, with South Africa’s first game a day later against Sri Lanka at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in East Meadow, New York.

So, with a new venue, perhaps a new broom should sweep clean through the Proteas team as well?

Considering all the previous failures, Proteas limited-overs coach Rob Walter may opt to pick a new captain and some fresh blood for the month-long tournament.

The Indian Premier League and the domestic CSA T20 Challenge are currently on the go, and have unearthed a few new-generation stars that Walter could have a look at.

Batter Tristan Stubbs has done quite well for the Delhi Capitals, while Mumbai Indians fast bowler Gerald Coetzee is joint-second on the leading wicket-takers’ list with 12, and left-arm paceman Nandré Burger has bowled some fiery spells.

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