South Africa Announces Squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2026 with Markram Captaining. South Africa announced their 15-player squad on Friday for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament will be played in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. The selectors have gone for a bold mix of experience and youth. Aiden Markram will captain the side. The management has backed his leadership after consistent ICC performances. Markram is expected to lead a fearless and flexible unit.
Senior players bring stability to the squad. Quinton de Kock and David Miller headline the batting group. Both offer vast World Cup experience and finishing ability. Young talents add freshness to the line-up. Dewald Brevis earns a key role after strong T20 displays. Teenage fast bowler Kwena Maphaka gets his first senior World Cup call-up.
The biggest boost is the return of Kagiso Rabada from injury. Rabada will lead a strong pace attack. Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi will support him. Spin responsibilities rest with Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi. They are expected to play a key role on Asian pitches.
South Africa is placed in Group D. They will face Afghanistan, Canada, New Zealand, and the UAE. The Proteas begin their campaign against Canada on February 9 in Ahmedabad. Fans welcomed the exclusion of Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen. Many felt it signals a fresh approach in T20 cricket. However, some questioned the omissions of Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickelton.
Overall, the squad reflects attacking intent and renewed ambition. South Africa will aim to challenge strongly for the 2026 title.
South Africa Squad – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Kwena Maphaka, Jason Smith.