In an unexpected turn of events, Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a new captain for the Proteas ahead of their upcoming T20 series against the West Indies. Despite not being part of the T20 World Cup squad, right-handed batsman Rassie van der Dussen has been appointed as the skipper for the three-match series against the West Indies ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. 

The decision to appoint van der Dussen as captain comes in light of regular skipper Aiden Markram's commitments in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) team Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). With Markram unavailable, CSA turned to van der Dussen to lead the team in their final preparations ahead of the T20 World Cup.

He has previously captained teams such as North West University, Vancouver Knights, Northerns, and the Lions. His appointment as captain of the Proteas adds another prestigious name to his list of captaincy stints.

However, coach Rob Walter felt Van der Dussen, who was not in the World Cup squad, was the right man to lead the team against their hosts in Jamaica.

“It is a relatively inexperienced group, and Rassie brings a wealth of experience, so we feel he’ll be good in the leadership space and offer huge value,” Walter said.

SA squad

Rassie van der Dussen (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Matthew Breetzke, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi

South Africa Tour of the West Indies Schedule 

23 May: 1st T20I, Sabina Park, Jamica

25 May: 2nd T20I, Sabina Park, Jamica

26 May, 3rd T20I, Sabina Park, Jamica