Joining South Africa and Zimbabwe in the series are the Black Caps of New Zealand, now coached by former Proteas head coach and fitness guru, Rob Walter. Walter stepped down from his role with the Proteas to take up the head coaching job with the Kiwis in New Zealand, where he resides.

The South Africans head into the tournament with plenty of confidence after recent success in Test cricket. However, the team will feature four debutants in the series – Lhuan-Dré Pretorius, Corbin Bosch, Prenelan Subrayen, and Codi Yusuf.

Rob Walter. Photo: Morgan Piek

Despite the fresh faces, captain Rassie van der Dussen says each of them fully deserves their place and has the full support of the squad.

“It’s a great honour to lead the team,” said the experienced Van der Dussen.

“Obviously, there are a few guys missing, so I’m happy to step in as captain in Aiden Markram’s absence. Like you mentioned, we’ve got four debutants and that’s really exciting.”

“They’re players who have been knocking on the door for the past 12 to 18 months. A guy like Lhuan-Dré has been in incredible form. Corbin Bosch has probably had the best year of his life. Even though they’re debutants, it feels like they’ve already been part of the setup for some time – and they look like they belong here.”

Van der Dussen is particularly impressed by Potchefstroom-born Pretorius, who made his international debut during the first Test in Bulawayo.

“I’m very excited about him – he’s a great kid with a good head on his shoulders,” said Van der Dussen. “He’s got the power game, but he combines it with flair, skill, and a sharp cricket brain. It’s rare to see all those qualities in one player.”

Rassie van der Dussen. Photo: Cricinfo

“That’s why he could step into Test cricket and adapt so quickly. While he's made his mark in T20 cricket - in the SA20 and even at the IPL - his first-class stats are just as impressive. That shows he has both the game and the mindset to succeed across formats.”

First ball between Zimbabwe and South Africa is scheduled for 13:00 at Harare Sports Club.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg