South Africa includes Rickelton, Stubbs to T20 World Cup 2026 squad

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has confirmed changes to their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with batters Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs earning selection after injury setbacks forced Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira out of contention. The tournament, set to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka next month, has already posed challenges for the Proteas due to multiple fitness concerns, leading the CSA to make changes to their 15-member squad.

Notably, De Zorzi has failed to recover from the hamstring tear he sustained during South Africa’s ODI series in India in December, while Ferreira fractured his shoulder while fielding in a recent SA20 match for Joburg Super Kings.

Rickelton’s inclusion comes after his controversial omission from the original squad announced on January 2. That decision had drawn widespread criticism, especially after the southpaw smashed back-to-back centuries in the SA20. On the other hand, Stubbs retains the selectors’ confidence despite decent returns.

Rickelton has been in fine form in the SA20, where he scored 337 runs at an average of 42.12 and a strike rate of 156.01. His omission earlier had raised eyebrows, particularly since de Zorzi had not played competitive cricket for nearly two months at the time due to injury. CSA later clarified that de Zorzi’s rehabilitation had not progressed as expected, ruling him out of both the upcoming West Indies T20I series and the World Cup.

Meanwhile, Stubbs’ performance in the SA20 was not notable, but his availability worked in his favour at a time when injuries have disrupted CSA’s plans. In contrast, Ferreira’s World Cup hopes ended after he fractured his left clavicle during an SA20 encounter. 

David Miller doubtful for World Cup

Furthermore, David Miller is currently the biggest worry after suffering an adductor injury while playing for the Paarl Royals. He will miss the West Indies T20Is and must pass a fitness test ahead of South Africa’s departure for the World Cup. Lungi Ngidi and Dewald Brevis have also picked up injuries, although both are expected to recover in time. Ngidi’s potential return has left Ottneil Baartman, the SA20’s leading wicket-taker, outside the squad once again.

If Miller fails to regain fitness, Rubin Hermann, who has been added to the squad for the West Indies series, could come into contention. CSA have already begun adjusting their batting plans, with Rickelton now a strong option near the top order after de Zorzi was initially locked in for the No.3 role.

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