Cricket South Africa (CSA) has confirmed the late inclusion of explosive batsmen Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs in the Proteas’ squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Their call-ups come in response to injuries suffered by Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira, forcing changes to the original squad composition.

Rickelton’s selection follows a standout run of form, particularly in the SA20, where he amassed 337 runs at an average of 42.12 and an impressive strike rate of 156.01.

Reeza Hendricks had initially been considered as a replacement for De Zorzi, but according to ESPNcricinfo, CSA’s board was ultimately “convinced of the merit of choosing Rickelton over Hendricks.”

The decision was made despite possible implications for CSA’s self-imposed transformation targets ahead of 2025.

The organisation is expected to address parliament in March regarding any shortfalls, although it has been noted that several players of colour were sidelined through injury for much of last year.

Injury Concerns Mount as Miller’s Fitness Remains Uncertain

CSA provided further clarity on the injury situation in an official statement. De Zorzi has “not progressed as expected in his rehabilitation from a right hamstring muscle tear” sustained during the recent ODI series against India. Ferreira, meanwhile, fractured his left clavicle during an SA20 match between Joburg Super Kings and Pretoria Capitals at the DP World Wanderers Stadium on January 17.

Additional concern surrounds senior batter David Miller, who suffered an adductor muscle injury earlier this week. CSA confirmed that his availability for the tournament remains uncertain and will depend on the outcome of a fitness assessment conducted ahead of the team’s support period.

Updated Proteas Squad and Group D Fixtures Confirmed

The updated South Africa men’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 now features Aiden Markram (captain), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, and Tristan Stubbs.

South Africa have been drawn into Group D for the tournament, with fixtures confirmed at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The Proteas will open their campaign against Canada on February 9, before facing Afghanistan on February 11, and concluding the group stage against New Zealand on February 14.