Cricket South Africa approves Bangladesh tour, names spin-heavy Test squad

Cricket South Africa has confirmed a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, beginning October 21, after a thorough security review. The Proteas have also named a spin-heavy Test squad for the Bangladesh series.

In Short

• CSA confirms Test series against Bangladesh after security assessment
• The series is to begin on October 21, part of ICC World Test Championship
• South Africa name a 15-member squad with a strong focus on spin bowling

In a significant boost for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Cricket South Africa (CSA) has officially confirmed its upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, set to begin on October 21. The decision follows a comprehensive security assessment conducted by CSA's Operations Manager, Team Security Manager, Safety and Security Consultant, and a South African Cricketers' Association representative.

"CSA has given the series a go-ahead based on the recommendation made by the team post an in-loco inspection visit to Bangladesh," CSA announced in a statement on Monday. The Proteas squad will arrive in Dhaka on October 16, ahead of the first Test scheduled from October 21-25. Following the match in Dhaka, the team will travel to Chattogram for the second Test, which is set to take place from October 29 to November 2. The series will be a part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship.

In preparation for the spin-friendly conditions in Bangladesh, South Africa has named a 15-member squad with a strong focus on spin bowling. Senuran Muthusamy, the 30-year-old all-rounder, returns to the Test setup after a year. He will join frontline spinners Keshav Maharaj and Dane Piedt, forming a potent three-pronged spin attack.

Muthusamy, who has three Test caps, last played for South Africa in March 2023, and his all-round abilities with both bat and ball could prove vital in the challenging subcontinent conditions. The squad also includes Matthew Breetzke, the only uncapped player in the lineup, while Temba Bavuma will captain the side.

"Bangladesh is always a tough place to tour," Test head coach Shukri Conrad said ahead of the 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 emphasized the importance of the spin-heavy attack: "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 the potential to make a mark with both bat and ball. We are really looking forward to seeing what he can offer."

The South African team is expected to face a tough challenge on Bangladesh's turning tracks, where the home side has developed a formidable record in recent years. However, the visitors believe that their balanced squad, featuring both experienced players and fresh talent, will be well-equipped to compete.

South Africa Test Squad: 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, Kyle Ver