Johannesburg – Stephen Cook will captain the South African Invitation XI in their 50 overs tour match against Pakistan in Kimberley on March 6, Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced on Wednesday.
“We were largely limited to select players from the Highveld Lions and the Dolphins for this match because the other four franchises will all be in action in the Ram Slam T20 Challenge on that date,” coach Vinnie Barnes said.
“Once again this match provides opportunities for players to show what they can do at a higher level and also to enjoy the special experience of playing against an international team.”
Barnes said they had seen a number of players take advantage of matches both for South Africa 'A' and the Invitation sides to earn places in the Proteas' set-up.
“You don't have to look further than Kyle Abbott for a good example of this,” he said.
“It is really heartening to see the excited feedback I get from players when they are offered this opportunity.”
SA Invitation XI: Stephen Cook (Highveld Lions, capt), Craig Alexander (Dolphins), Temba Bavuma (Highveld Lions), Cody Chetty (Dolphins), Quinton de Kock (Highveld Lions), Imran Tahir (Highveld Lions), Chris Morris (Highveld Lions), Jean Symes (Highveld Lions), Jonathan Vandiar (Dolphins), Vaughn van Jaarsveld (Dolphins), Hardus Viljoen (Highveld Lions), Lizaad Williams (Cape Cobras). – Sapa