SA Emerging Men’s and Women’s Squads Named for 2025 Bangladesh Tour | CSA Official

South Africa Emerging Squads Announced for High-Stakes Tour of Bangladesh

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has unveiled its SA Emerging Men’s and Women’s squads for a multi-format tour of Bangladesh in May 2025. Designed as a key development initiative, this series offers upcoming talent international exposure in challenging subcontinent conditions. The Bangladesh tour is also a vital step in the CSA talent pipeline as both teams prepare for the demands of senior-level international cricket.

SA Emerging Women Gear Up for White-Ball Challenge

Led by World Sports Betting Western Province pacer Leah Jones in the T20s and DP World Lions spinner Kgomotso Rapoo in the ODIs, the SA Emerging Women’s squad enters this tour with a balanced mix of experience and youthful potential. Under head coach Dinesha Devnarain, the team is scheduled to play three one-day matches in Chattogram followed by three T20 games in Cox’s Bazar from May 6 to 18.

The squad boasts names who have already brushed shoulders with the national setup, including Faye Tunnicliffe and Delmi Tucker, alongside rising stars like Alexandra Candler and Simone Lourens. The tour is an opportunity for these players to adapt to slow, spin-friendly wickets and humid conditions a true test for batters and bowlers alike.

High Performance Head Grant van Velden emphasized the value of these experiences: “This tour is a crucial building block for our women cricketers. The blend of junior, fringe senior, and emerging domestic talent gives us a lens into the future. It’s more than just matches; it’s about learning to perform under pressure in unfamiliar conditions.”

Emerging Men Face Dual Format Examination

On the men’s side, captain George van Heerden will lead a 15-member squad through a demanding schedule that includes three 50-over games and two four-day matches. The team kicks off the campaign in Rajshahi and concludes in Dhaka by the end of May.

The men’s team features an exciting mix of top domestic performers like Dewan Marais, Muhammad Manack, and Tiaan van Vuuren. With Malibongwe Maketa at the helm, the coaching group also features former national team regulars such as Paul Adams and Imraan Khan, ensuring a wealth of experience is shared.

Van Velden pointed out that several of the men had previously toured Bangladesh at U19 level, and this return offers a clear marker of growth and maturity. "Playing long-format games in Bangladesh will test every aspect of their skillset, from patience and endurance to tactical awareness," he said.

The timing of the tour also makes it significant, as it will transition directly into the CSA Emerging Academy programme scheduled to begin in June. Players who shine in Bangladesh could find themselves fast-tracked for higher honours within domestic and international circuits.

A Broader Vision for South African Cricket

CSA’s commitment to development is on full display with this dual tour. By maintaining robust pathways through the Emerging squads, CSA ensures a deeper talent pool, equipped with global experience. The Bangladesh tour is not just about results; it’s a testing ground where skills, temperament, and adaptability will be scrutinised.

This effort aligns with CSA’s broader ambition to enhance South Africa's competitive edge across formats and genders. From player development to coaching infrastructure, the investment in this tour underscores the governing body's long-term vision.