Bjorn Fortuin named Proteas captain for Namibia white-ball tour

Bjorn Fortuin has been appointed captain of the Proteas for their upcoming white-ball tour of Namibia. He will lead the squad through a T20 tri-series involving Namibia and Zimbabwe, followed by a three-match ODI series against the hosts. This ODI series marks the first time the two nations have competed in 50-over contests.

Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram have been rested from this tour to prepare for a busy home summer. The upcoming home schedule includes visits from England, Australia, and Bangladesh. Additionally, the bowling unit consisting of Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Marco Jansen, and Keshav Maharaj was not selected for this trip, as the team prepares for eight scheduled Test matches at home.

Head coach Shukri Conrad selected a single squad to cover both the T20 and ODI series. Conrad noted that the selection provides an opportunity for players to increase their international experience. The squad includes Duan Jansen, who earned his first international call-up following strong domestic performances with the Titans. Siblings Jordan and Rubin Hermann have also been included, with Jordan returning to the setup after an injury during the T20I series against New Zealand.

Other selections include Connor Esterhuizen and Nqobani Mokoena, both of whom were included following their performances in the T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year. Fortuin, who has 16 ODI and 27 T20I appearances, was chosen for his leadership experience after captaining the Lions to multiple titles.

The full Proteas white-ball squad features Bjorn Fortuin, Eathan Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Duan Jansen, Kwena Maphaka, Nqobani Mokoena, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Lutho Sipamla, Jason Smith, and Prenelan Subrayen.