Rabada returns in South Africa' squad for the World Cup

South Africa delivered a massive shock by excluding dynamic batter Tristan Stubbs from their 2026 T20 World Cup squad, signaling a tactical shift for the tournament in India and Sri Lanka. Conversely, pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada returns following injury to bolster the attack alongside Ngidi, Nortje, and Jansen. The selectors surprisingly included 31-year-old Jason Smith, rewarding his explosive domestic performances, including a recent 19-ball 68.

While Stubbs and Reeza Hendricks miss out, Convenor Patrick Moroney defended the "big calls," believing this mix of youth and experience offers the best chance of success. Captain Aiden Markram leads a core featuring veterans Quinton de Kock and David Miller, plus spinner Keshav Maharaj.

Newcomers Dewald Brevis, Donovan Ferreira, Tony de Zorzi, and George Linde join retained youngster Kwena Maphaka. Coach Shukri Conrad emphasized that their recent subcontinent tour provided vital preparation, ensuring the previous runners-up are ready for the specific conditions awaiting them.