Proteas Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Anrich Nortjé’s Return and Fresh Talent in the Mix

South African cricket fans have reason to celebrate as Proteas white-ball coach Rob Walter announced a 15-man squad for the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan next month. This marks the return of fast bowler Anrich Nortjé, who has not played for the national team since the T20 World Cup final against India in Barbados last year.

The 31-year-old bowler’s return is highly awaited after a series of setbacks. Despite being called up for South Africa’s home white-ball series against Pakistan, Nortjé was sidelined due to a broken toe. Walter confirmed that Nortjé, who is a key figure in the team, will be back in action for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

There’s also speculation about Nortjé’s future in Test cricket, with Proteas Test coach Shukri Conrad hinting at his inclusion for the Boxing Day Test at Centurion. Although Nortjé missed the recent SA20 opener due to injury, he was expected to play in the rain-affected match at Centurion. His last competitive match was for Deccan Gladiators in the Abu Dhabi T10 on December 2.

Another crucial player making his comeback is fast bowler Lungi Ngidi. Ngidi has not played internationally since October 7, 2024, when South Africa faced Ireland in Abu Dhabi. He missed the entire home international season due to a groin injury. However, after successfully completing his return to play with the Paarl Royals in the SA20, Ngidi is ready for the international stage again.

Walter expressed confidence in the squad’s blend of experienced players and fresh talent. The squad includes seasoned international cricketers like Kagiso Rabada and Aiden Markram, alongside debutants Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Wiaan Mulder, who will participate in their first senior ICC 50-over tournament.

“This squad boasts a wealth of experience, with many players having consistently performed in high-pressure situations,” Walter stated. “We’ve managed to maintain the core group of our 2023 World Cup squad, whilst adding fresh talent. Our recent performances at ICC events show that we’re capable of reaching the latter stages of global tournaments. We’re eager to take the next step and go even further in pursuit of the coveted silverware.”

The Proteas are placed in Group B for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with their opening match against Afghanistan on February 21 in Karachi. Their next fixture will be against Australia on February 25 in Rawalpindi, followed by their final group-stage match against England on March 1 in Karachi.

Proteas Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

• Temba Bavuma (captain)
• Tony de Zorzi
• Marco Jansen
• Heinrich Klaasen
• Keshav Maharaj
• Aiden Markram
• David Miller
• Wiaan Mulder
• Lungi Ngidi
• Anrich Nortjé
• Kagiso Rabada
• Ryan Rickelton
• Tabraiz Shamsi
• Tristan Stubbs
• Rassie van der Dussen

Support Staff:

• Imraan Khan (batting coach)

As the Proteas look forward to the prestigious tournament in Pakistan, the squad’s mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent has raised hopes of a successful campaign. With a strong combination of pace, spin, and top-order batting, the Proteas are ready to make an impact on the world stage once again.

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