Did the Proteas miss a trick by not playing Kwena Maphaka against Pakistan?

The Proteas Tri-Nations series against New Zealand and Pakistan was always going to be about experimenting, but in leaving out Kwena Maphaka in their precursor to the Champions Trophy, will it count against South Africa?

The 18-year-old Maphaka is a reserve for the Champions Trophy, and instead the Proteas picked Lungi Ngidi for their Tri-Nations game against hosts Pakistan in Karachi on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old Ngidi bowled seven overs and went wicketless (0/54) in the Proteas’ first match against New Zealand. Ngidi is still working towards full fitness and his seven overs against the Kiwis was the most he’s bowled since October.

Still, the Proteas seem set on Ngidi being back to his best in the Champions Trophy. In fact, his performance will be crucial for South Africa alongside leader of the attack Kagiso Rabada.

Greater responsibility

With the injured Anrich Nortje and his expected replacement Gerald Coetzee missing out on the Champions Trophy, it places greater responsibility on the fast bowling unit.

That unit of course was boosted by the inclusion of Corbin Bosch. Not only is Bosch a tearaway quick bowler, he also adds considerable ability with the bat. That was demonstrated in his One-Day International (ODI) debut for the Proteas in December also against Pakistan.

In Johannesburg, Bosch ended 40 not out in South Africa’s unsuccessful chase of 309 for victory as they were bowled out for 271.

If South Africa win their match against hosts Pakistan on Wednesday, they will advance to the final of the short series, but crucially play another warm-up match.

New Zealand have already booked their spot in the final on Friday, and the Proteas could definitely use an extra match ahead of their Champions Trophy opener against Afghanistan in just over a week’s time.

@Michael_Sherman

IOL Sport