Proteas call-up uncapped duo and Morkel for Black Caps series
Uncapped duo Heinrich Klaasen and Theunis de Bruyn have been named in South Africa’s Test squad for the series in New Zealand and Morne Morkel has been recalled after recovering from a back injury that could have ended his career.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Klaasen is rewarded for some eye-catching displays for Titans in the Sunfoil Series, the pick being a knock of 195 against Dolphins this month.
De Bruyn is also in contention to win a first cap in the three-match series next month after the batsman was included in the squad to face Sri Lanka, but missed out on selection.
Morkel could make his first Test appearance since January 2016 after the paceman made his Titans comeback last week.
Fit-again quicks Vernon Philander and Chris Morris are also set to make Test returns, while Keshav Maharaj is the solitary spinner in the squad.
Cricket South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said: “Heinrich Klaasen was one of the top performers throughout the season and he is rewarded for his form by being included in the Test squad.
“With Dane Vilas no longer available for selection, it was an opportunity to reward someone else. This will be an excellent opportunity for Heinrich and we wish him all the best.”
He added: “Morne Morkel has worked hard on his fitness over the past few months and we believe he is now 100 per cent fit and fully able to compete for his place in the team.
“We have six quality fast bowlers in the squad and that shows just how much of depth the country has in this department.”
South Africa: Faf du Plessis (captain), Stephen Cook, Dean Elgar, Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock, Vernon Philander, Keshav Maharaj, Wayne Parnell, Kagiso Rabada, Duanne Olivier, Theunis de Bruyn, Heinrich Klaasen, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris.
