Senokwane, who earns his maiden SA ‘A’ call-up, was a standout in the CSA 4-Day Series but struggled to leave a mark in white-ball formats. He will most likely feature in the two unofficial Tests. 

Meanwhile, Forrester’s exclusion is being viewed as rather surprising. The all-rounder delivered reliable performances across all formats this season. His consistency was of such high quality that for a second season in a row, he was named as the Knights’ Most Valuable Player, the highest honour at the Free State Cricket Union.

Lesego Senokwane. Photo: Morgan Piek

Led by Dolphins stalwart Marques Ackerman, the SA ‘A’ side will face their West Indian counterparts in three one-day matches and two unofficial Tests, all scheduled at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in Saint Lucia between 21 May and 11 June. 

Ackerman’s appointment was described by team coach Wandile Gwavu as a “natural fit,” given his previous leadership roles with the Dolphins and SA U19.

Another notable inclusion is Lhuan-dré Pretorius, the 19-year-old Titans wicketkeeper-batter who capped off a breakout domestic season with three centuries in five first-class games. Pretorius also delivered in the one-day format, scoring 316 runs at an average of 45.14, including two centuries, earning him a richly deserved first SA ‘A’ call-up.

Dian Forrester. Photo: Morgan Piek

The squad strikes a mix of emerging prospects and experienced hands, including several players with Proteas caps: Bjorn Fortuin, Ruan de Swardt, Sinethemba Qeshile, Jason Smith, and others. A strong spin presence, with four specialists included, reflects the anticipated conditions in Saint Lucia.

“This group of players was selected based on a combination of their performances, potential, and specific skills that we believe will be valuable to the senior men’s team in the near future,” said Gwavu.

“With a busy international schedule ahead, the next World Test Championship cycle approaching, and the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, this tour forms an important part of our broader strategy to widen our national talent pool. 

“Conditions were also a key factor in our planning. Playing all five matches at the same venue could see spin playing a major role, which is why we’ve opted to include four spinners in the squad. 

Lhuan-dré Pretorius. Photo: Morgan Piek

“That said, we believe this group has the skill to adapt and compete, regardless of the conditions. Marques is no stranger to captaincy, having led the Dolphins and SA U19s previously, so appointing him as captain was an easy decision. 

“Beyond his experience, he brings the right character to the role as he leads from the front and is deeply passionate about the game. I’m really looking forward to working with him on this upcoming tour.”

The squad will gather for a preparatory camp at the Centre of Excellence in Pretoria from 11-15 May, before flying out from OR Tambo International Airport on 16 May.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh