Johannesburg’s cricket circles are buzzing with news from the South African camp. All-rounder Ethan Bosch has been ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20 series against New Zealand due to an unfortunate injury. In a swift replacement move, experienced campaigner Wiaan Mulder has been drafted into the 15-member squad, bringing his international know-how back to the fore.
The series kicks off on March 15 in Mount Maunganui, with the finale set for Christchurch on March 25. Bosch, who plies his trade for the Dolphins in domestic cricket, had just one ODI cap under his belt for the Proteas. At 26, he was tipped as a strong contender for a T20 debut, but injury has dashed those hopes for now.
Mulder, on the other hand, isn’t new to the big stage. The all-rounder boasts 11 T20I appearances, his last coming against Ireland in September 2024. This call-up marks a significant return after a considerable hiatus, injecting stability into the side.
Logistical hurdles have added intrigue to the preparations. With military tensions in West Asia leading to temporary airspace closures, South African players remain stranded in Kolkata. The ICC has arranged special charter flights for South Africa, West Indies, and England teams, expected to ferry them home by week’s end. Those in South Africa depart for New Zealand on March 8, while T20 World Cup 2026 participants head straight from India.
Keshav Maharaj leads the Proteas in this series, a role he’s eager to embrace. The schedule unfolds with games in Hamilton (March 17), Auckland (March 20), Wellington (March 22), and Christchurch (March 25). Full squad: Keshav Maharaj (c), Ottneil Baartman, Wiaan Mulder, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen, Dian Forrester, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, George Linde, Nkokonathi Mokoena, Andile Simelane, Lutho Sipamla, Prenelan Subrayen, Jason Smith.
As South Africa eyes a strong start post their T20 World Cup triumph, Mulder’s inclusion could prove pivotal in balancing the attack and bolstering the middle order.