While South Africa secured a 2-0 Test series victory against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha on Monday, the team competing in the T20 International series will be entirely different.

The big names will be rested for the T20s, as there are still two crucial Tests against Pakistan ahead. The only players from the Test series against Sri Lanka who will feature in the T20s are Ryan Rickelton, Matthew Breetzke, and Kwena Maphaka.

Big-hitting wicketkeeper Heinrich Klaasen, who will captain the team, emphasised the importance of a strong start.

Heinrich Klaasen. Photo: Cricinfo

“We’re looking to get a series win under our belt,” said Klaasen. “The boys have been putting in a lot of hard work over the last couple of series. The games have been close – we’ve been fine-tuning our mistakes, and there’s been a lot of brilliance in between.

“It’s just about refining those details. The boys have grafted well in the camp. There were a lot of positives and several standout performances. So, we’re looking forward to starting the series at a good pace.”

Klaasen added that, with the team under pressure as a white-ball unit, it will be essential to rely on senior players like Tabraiz Shamsi and Rassie van der Dussen.

Tabraiz Shamsi. Photo: Cricinfo

“It’s fantastic to have those guys back – Tabraiz Shamsi and Rassie van der Dussen bring valuable experience. Many of our players have faced Pakistan before, even in domestic competitions, so there’s a wealth of information they can share.

“The senior players have been around, and even the youngsters have delivered great performances in international cricket. There’s a lot of confidence to draw from everyone, but leaning on the senior players will be crucial in this competition.”

The 1st T20 International at Kingsmead is set to begin at 18:00 on Tuesday evening.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg