Linde gets maiden call-up in SA squad for India ODIs

The 15-man squad also sees the return of rested players, du Plessis and Rassie van der Dussen to bolster the batting line-up and the retention of newcomer Kyle Verreynne who impressed selectors with his score of 48 off 64 on debut against Australia in Paarl on Saturday.

Du Plessis has not played an ODI since South Africa’s disappointing World Cup campaign under his leadership. Keshav Maharaj and Lutho Sipamla are also among the retained players.

“The selections are a continuation of Cricket South Africa’s (CSA) search for the next generation of Proteas who will potentially represent the country in the 2023 ICC World Cup in India...,” Cricket South Africa said in a statement.

“It is also a good opportunity for the players selected to put their hands up and show what they are capable of in the tough playing conditions of India,” it added.

Spinner Tabraiz Shamsi was not available for selection as he and his wife Khadija are anticipating the birth of their first child. Lead pacer Kagiso Rabada remained unavailable due to a groin strain.

South Africa had toured India for three Tests and as many T20s last year. It drew the T20 series before being hammered in Tests.