Phehlukwayo, Kuhn get Test call ups

CRICKET SA named Titans opening batsman, Heino Kuhn, and Dolphins allrounder, Andile Phehlukwayo, as uncapped players in the Proteas Test squad for the four-match Test Series against England, starting next month.

They take the places of Stephen Cook and Wayne Parnell respectively from the squad who played the last series against New Zealand. Dane Piedt also drops out as the selectors have only named one specialist spinner in Keshav Maharaj.

A third uncapped player, Aiden Markram of the Titans, has also been included to provide batting cover for Faf du Plessis.

Dean Elgar will captain the side in the warm-up match and will stand in for Du Plessis in the first Test match if the latter is not available for selection.

The 33-year-old Kuhn is having a prolific summer in England with the South African “A” side after scoring 200 not out against Hampshire in a first-class fixture and following that up with 105 against England Lions.

The experienced Kuhn also provides cover for wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock, and has featured in seven Twenty20 Internationals.

“Heino Kuhn has shown outstanding form for South Africa “A” on their recent tour of England which included a double century in the four-day match against Hampshire and a further century against the England Lions,” said CSA selection convener, Linda Zondi.

“He certainly deserved his place on consistent form which also includes back-to-back Sunfoil Series seasons.

“Andile’s selection is a continuation of our drive to develop bowling all-rounders for the Test team.

“He and Chris Morris will fill this role in support of Vernon Philander. At the age of 21 he is certainly one for the future.

“Dean has impressed with his contribution as a member of the leadership group,” concluded Zondi.

PICTURE: BACKPAGEPIX TWENTY one-year-old Dolphins all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has already established himself in the Proteas T20 and one-day international squads. He now gets his chance in the Test arena.