Lungi Ngidi returns as Proteas name pace-heavy squad for WTC summit clash

South Africa has named their 15-man squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia, set to take place from June 11 to 15 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi returns to the side after missing the home summer due to a groin injury. The right-arm pacer, currently representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL, has since regained full fitness and featured in various white-ball matches for South Africa and T20 leagues around the world.

Proteas Men’s head coach Shukri Conrad, speaking on the official CSA website, expressed his delight at Ngidi’s return. He said, “I’m particularly pleased to welcome Lungi back in the side. He’s put in the work and offers us an experienced option with the ball.”

South Africa has made just two changes from the squad that played Pakistan earlier this year, maintaining their core group. Promising pacer Kwena Maphaka makes way for Ngidi, while top-order batter Matthew Breetzke has been left out.

The batting unit is anchored by Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, and Aiden Markram at the top, with Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, and skipper Temba Bavuma forming the middle-order core. Kyle Verreynne will take on wicketkeeping duties, while Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen provide depth as all-rounders capable of contributing with both bat and ball. Additionally, left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj will lead the spin department, supported by backup option Senuran Muthusamy.

Bavuma will continue to captain the Proteas as they chase their maiden WTC title in what will be their first appearance in the final, having topped the standings with a points percentage of 69.44.

The Proteas men will assemble in Arundel on May 31 and play a warm-up match against Zimbabwe from June 3 to 6, before moving to London on June 7.

South Africa squad for WTC final: Temba Bavuma (capt), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Kyle Verreynne.