The CSA T20 Challenge concludes this week with a heated semi-final clash as local players look to impress Proteas selectors ahead of the T20 World Cup in America and West Indies in June get one last chance.
The Lions will host the Titans in the first semi-final on Wednesday night in what will be another blockbuster Highfeld derby, followed by the Dolphins hosting the Warriors in Durban in the second semi-final on Thursday night, with both games played in the afternoon. It starts at 6 o'clock.
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All four teams have marginal players who desperately want to be included in the World Cup squad selection.
Proteas at IPL
Most of the Proteas players selected for the World Cup squad are currently playing in the IPL in India, but a few players who are still active in the CSA T20 are also expected to feature.
Lions starting pitcher Leeza Hendricks, Titans stars Lungi Ngidi and Tabraiz Shamsi, and Warriors starting pitcher Matthew Blitzke all would have a strong chance of making it into the World Cup squad.
Among the players who are thriving under him, Lions opening pitcher Ryan Rickelton, who brought his best performance in the SA20 to the CSA T20, and Wyan Mulder, a solid all-rounder who has been solid throughout the season, should also be in the frame. .
Dolphins batting all-rounder Bryce Parsons and Warriors bowling all-rounder Beyers Swanepoel have also made strong statements about their inclusion, although it will be a disadvantage not to have previously been in the Proteas squad.
Some players may be worried about whether they will be able to make the World Cup squad. Proteas Test captain Themba Bavuma had a very average CSA T20 performance, while Rassie van der Dussen has shown occasional flashes of talent, although neither is guaranteed selection. do not have.
Up-and-coming talent
SA U19 wicketkeeper-batsman Luandre Pretorius established himself as a regular for the Titans in the tournament, while teenage fast bowling sensation Kwena Mapaka got off to a great start before being taken ahead by Mumbai Indians. However, young up-and-coming stars also left an impression.
However, it is likely too early to incorporate either into the Proteas' system for the World Cup.
Watching the first semi-final, Titans captain Neil Brand is expecting another thrill between the two teams after they won one game each in the pool stages. Both scores came on the last ball of the game, giving the Lions a one-point victory over the Wanderers and Wanderers. The Titans won by two wickets at Centurion.
“The Lions have a very strong team this year with a lot of Proteas players. So we have to do our best. Our bowling attack has worked really well and everyone is playing their role I think I understand what that is,” Brand said.
“I think it's going to be another great game. We've finished the ball the last two times against the Lions, and I'm sure this will be another tough game.”