South Africa have called up fast bowler Kwena Mapakha and all-rounder Jason Smith for their upcoming T20I series against the West Indies. The 18-year-old Mapakha was the leading wicket-taker in the U19 World Cup earlier this year after he finished with 21 wickets from six matches, including three five-wicket hauls.

Maphaka also made his debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) while playing for the Mumbai Indians (MI). Smith, on the other hand, has substantial experience of playing in South Africa’s domestic cricket. Rob Walter, the Proteas white-ball coach, sounded excited about the inclusion of Maphaka and Smith.

“We’re excited to have Jason [Smith] and Kwena [Maphaka] join the squad for this series. Jason’s recent performances have been impressive, and his ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds valuable depth to our line-up.

“Kwena has been identified as a player with significant potential, and this tour presents a great opportunity to include him in the Proteas environment and gain valuable international experience.”

The visitors have given rest to a few of their key players, including David Miller, Tabraiz Shamsi, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada and Quinton de Kock. Walter gave injury concerns, workload management and commitments in franchise T20 leagues as reasons for their omission.

“Several players were not considered for this series due to either injury, being in a conditioning block that is related to workload management, or their participation in ongoing T20 leagues,” Walter added.

The T20I series is scheduled to get underway on Friday, August 23. The Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad will host all three matches of the series. The Proteas recently finished as the runners-up after losing to Rohit Sharma’s India in the final at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados.

South Africa squad

Aiden Markram, Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Lizaad Williams.