Tsotsobe named by Proteas

Paceman included in squad to tour Australia

Last updated: 22nd November 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Tsotsobe named by Proteas

Tsotsobe: Uncapped

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South Africa have included rookie paceman Lonwabo Tsotsobe in a 15-man squad for next month's three-match Test series against Australia.

The left-armer is the only uncapped player in the squad, which includes the XI that completed the Test victory over Bangladesh on Saturday, plus batsman Jean-Paul Duminy and fast bowler Monde Zondeki.

Tsotsobe impressed the selectors during the domestic season, picking up 16 wickets for the Eastern Cape Warriors at an average of 18.

"He has the opportunity to prove himself because we have been looking for a left-armer for a while," said acting convenor of selectors Greg Matthews. "It will give him a good indication of where he is lacking certain things."

Left-arm spinner Robin Peterson is also included as cover for fellow left-armer Paul Harris, who suffered a fracture to the base of his left thumb during the first Test against Bangladesh.

Injury continues to rule out Andre Nel and Albie Morkel while there is no quick return for Herschelle Gibbs, who was sent home from the Bangladesh tour after breaking a curfew.

"I think we have earned the right to be confident," said captain Graeme Smith. "Each player has contributed to our recent success and, as captain, I have a lot of confidence in the squad,"

"We will go to Australia as a mature team in a settled environment, everyone knows their roles and we have a clear goal in mind. I have no doubt we will be able to meet the challenges we find there."

The first Test against Australia starts in Perth on December 17.

Squad: Graeme Smith (captain), Ashwell Prince (vice-captain), Hashim Amla, Mark Boucher, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Paul Harris, Jacques Kallis, Neil McKenzie, Morne Morkel, Makhaya Ntini, Robin Peterson, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe and Monde Zondeki.