South Africa name 7 uncapped players for Test series against New Zealand, debutant to captain 

The Test team's captain has never played a Test for South Africa.

South Africa name 7 uncapped players for Test series against New Zealand, debutant to captain 

South Africa will be without the services of many of their key players due to the SA20 (Image via ESPN)

South Africa are going to tour New Zealand for two Tests in February. Unfortunately, it clashes with their T20 League, the SA20. They attempted to reschedule the tour, but the New Zealand Cricket refused to do so, which means they will travel with a team filled with debutants. 

The squad comprises 14 players, out of which only 7 have represented South Africa in Tests. The side will be captained by Neil Brand, an all-rounder that has never played for his nation. Batters Keegan Petersen, David Bedingham and Zubayr Hamza have played Tests, while pacers Duanne Oliver and Dane Paterson are the only pacers with any Test experience. 

South Africa Squad for New Zealand tour: Neil Brand (captain), David Bedingham, Ruan de Swardt, Clyde Fortuin, Zubayr Hamza, Tshepo Moreki, Mihlali Mpongwana, Duanne Olivier, Dane Paterson, Keegan Petersen, Dane Piedt, Raynard van Tonder, Shaun von Berg and Khaya Zondo

South Africa shifts aim to series decider 

After beating India by an innings during the Boxing Day Test, the Proteas have shifted their focus to the 2nd Test, which will be played on 3rd January. It will be played at the Newlands Stadium, Cape Town. It will also be Dean Elgar’s last Test match. 

Indian Cricket Team
Dean Elgar takes a run as Shardul Thakur looks on (Image via ESPN)

Newlands is yet another South African pitch that assists pacers. At times, it can help the spinners, making it a pitch suitable for bowling. It helps the pacers to gain seam movement and bounce, something Indian batters have struggled playing. 

Elgar replaced Temba Bavuma as captain, as Bavuma injured himself during the first Test. Gerald Coetzee will also miss the Test match, as he had a pelvic inflammation during the first Test. Lungi Ngidi is most likely going to replace the injured pacer. 

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