Proteas take ‘Fudge’ Down Under

The Proteas’ message in the build-up to next year’s World Cup is becoming clearer: experience counts.

It is difficult not to come to that conclusion after the national selectors announced the squad for next month’s ODI series against Australia.

Arguably the most telling indication is the selection of Farhaan Behardien.

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The 35-year-old Titans stalwart has been recalled after a period in the 50-over wilderness following the news that JP Duminy won’t be making the trip due to a shoulder injury.

There had been a view that Duminy’s absence could open the door for the diminutive Temba Bavuma, but it seems he still hasn’t played enough limited overs cricket for the selectors to shift him from the “Test specialist” bracket.

“We have also lost a lot of experience in our specialist batting order through the injuries to Hashim Amla and JP, and Farhaan gives us another experienced option in the top order,” said selection convener Linda Zondi.

Behardien’s occasional seamer could also come in handy.

South Africa have also fallen back on experience in terms of the all-rounders in the squad, notably Chris Morris and Dwaine Pretorius.

Morris’ inclusion was rather expected after a fine start to the domestic season.

“Chris confirmed his fitness with his excellent form for the Titans in the first two rounds of the Four-day domestic series,” said Linda Zondi.

“He’s the leading wicket-taker in this competition to date and also adds value as a batting option in the lower-order.”

Pretorius, however, is a surprise, but remains one of franchise cricket’s most accomplished jack-of-all-trades.

Proteas squad: Faf du Plessis (c), Farhaan Behardien, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Imran Tahir, Heinrich Klaasen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Chris Morris, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn.

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