South Africa announce squad for Test series against Bangladesh

South Africa has officially included all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy in their Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Bangladesh, set to begin on October 21.

Muthusamy, who bowls left-arm orthodox, joins a formidable spin trio alongside Keshav Maharaj and Dane Piedt. With three Test appearances to his name, the last of which was in March 2023, Muthusamy has made a significant impact in first-class cricket, amassing 247 wickets and nearly 5,000 runs at an average of 30.41.

Headlining the pace attack is the experienced Kagiso Rabada, with Nandre Burger, Dane Paterson, and Wiaan Mulder also included in the squad. Notably, Lungi Ngidi and Migael Pretorius are the only players from South Africa's previous Test series against the West Indies—held in July and August—not selected for the upcoming Bangladesh tour.

South Africa's head coach, Shukri Conrad, praised the versatility and depth of the selected squad, emphasizing the critical role of the spin department in the challenging conditions expected in Bangladesh.

"I want to firstly thank both boards, Cricket South Africa and the Bangladesh Cricket Board, for ensuring the series goes ahead. Bangladesh is always a tough place to tour. They've become a formidable side at home and we have to be prepared for the challenge that awaits us. We have therefore chosen a squad for the conditions we are expecting to greet us when we get there," Conrad said.

Conrad expressed confidence in his spin contingent, stating, "We have three frontline spinners and all of them have the ability to step up at any time they are needed. This is a great chance for someone like Senuran, who has potential to make a mark with both bat and ball. We are really looking forward to seeing what he can offer."

The two-Test series will kick off in Dhaka, with the second match scheduled for Chattogram starting November 2.

South Africa squad for Bangladesh Tests: Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson, Dane Piedt, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, and Kyle Verreynne