Head coach Cheslyn Gie assembled a group that combines proven international performers with an exciting crop of emerging talent, and they showed their worth as they finished as the runners-up at the recent FIH Nations Cup in Cape Town and achieved a 3-0 Test series victory against Malaysia in Durban. 

The squad reflects the progress the national side has made in recent years, blending experience, pace and youthful enthusiasm as South Africa prepares to test itself against the world’s leading hockey nations.

Tevin Kok. Photo: Travis Rein

Captain Dayaan Cassiem will once again lead the Proteas and enters the tournament on the brink of a significant milestone. The inspirational playmaker sits on 99 international caps and is set to become only the latest South African men’s player to reach the coveted 100-cap mark during the World Cup.

Cassiem will be surrounded by a strong leadership group featuring his brother Mustapha Cassiem, veteran link Nic Spooner, experienced defender Andrew Hobson, hard-working midfielder Sam Mvimbi and versatile campaigner Calvin Davis. 

Their wealth of international experience is expected to play a crucial role as South Africa navigates a demanding tournament.

Mustapha Cassiem. Photo: Travis Rein

The squad also rewards several younger players who have impressed in recent international competitions. Players such as Brendan du Toit, Damian Knott, Jared Cass and Kenton Melville have continued to grow in confidence at the international level and will be eager to seize the opportunity to perform on hockey’s biggest stage.

South Africa has steadily developed into a far more competitive outfit over the past few seasons, producing encouraging performances against several of the world’s top-ranked nations. 

The World Cup now presents another opportunity for the team to showcase that progress while challenging themselves against the sport’s elite.

Jared Cass. Photo: Travis Rein

The campaign begins on 16 August with a tough opening clash against Spain before South Africa takes on Ireland on 18 August. 

Their pool-stage commitments conclude with what promises to be one of their biggest tests when they face world heavyweight Australia on 20 August.

With three demanding fixtures awaiting them, the South Africans know that every point will be vital if they are to progress beyond the group stages. Nevertheless, the squad will travel with confidence, believing it has the quality, character, and determination to compete with the very best.

Jamie Seale. Photo: Travis Rein

South Africa’s 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup squad (Test caps in brackets): Andrew Hobson (53 caps), Ayakha Mthalane (15), Brendan du Toit (4), Calvin Davis (29), Carlon Mentoor (15), Cullin de Jager (18), Damian Knott (6), Dayaan Cassiem (99), Hans Neethling (19), Jamie Seale (13), Jared Cass (10), Kenton Melville (8), Luke Wynford (23), Mustapha Cassiem (70), Nic Spooner (87), Sam Mvimbi (83), Sihle Ngubane (43), Tevin Kok (84), Trevor de Lora (32), Zenani Kraai (40)

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh