Dolphins set for title defence without several first-choice players touring New Zealand with South Africa’s T20I squad

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Veteran legspinner Imran Tahir is set to make a remarkable return to the Dolphins squad for the upcoming CSA One Day Cup, strengthening their title defence campaign. The 46-year-old, who represented the Dolphins in South Africa’s domestic circuit from the 2010-11 to 2019-20 seasons, will rejoin the side ahead of their tournament opener against the Warriors in Gqeberha.

Tahir’s return comes at a crucial time for the Dolphins, who will be without seven of their premier players due to South Africa’s five-match T20I tour of New Zealand, starting March 15. His vast international and domestic experience is expected to provide leadership and stability to a squad undergoing temporary changes.

Head coach Quinton Friend welcomed the move, emphasizing Tahir’s value both on and off the field. He highlighted the importance of bringing in an experienced campaigner, especially with multiple key players unavailable. According to Friend, Tahir’s presence in the dressing room will offer guidance and balance as the team navigates a challenging start to the season.

The Dolphins have also been boosted by the return of JJ Smuts, who recently featured for Italy in the T20 World Cup. His inclusion adds further depth to the squad as they aim to maintain consistency in the 50-over format.

With South Africa set to host the 50-over World Cup in 2027, the relevance of domestic competitions like the CSA One Day Cup has significantly increased. Friend stressed that building a strong foundation in the 50-over format is vital for national success. He noted that Cricket South Africa is focusing on shaping a competitive squad for future global tournaments, making performances in domestic cricket more crucial than ever.

Most players currently involved in the T20 World Cup will not travel to New Zealand. The touring squad will be led by Keshav Maharaj, himself a Dolphins player. Other Dolphins members in the touring party include Nqobani Mokoena, Ottneil Baartman, Prenelan Subrayen, Eathan Bosch, Andile Simelane and Jason Smith. Except for Maharaj and Smith, the rest remain part of the One Day Cup squad for the season opener.

Despite the temporary absence of several stars, the Dolphins remain ambitious. The team management has invested heavily in strengthening their player pipeline over the past two years, ensuring capable replacements are ready to step up. The expectation, as always, is to compete strongly and challenge for the trophy.

Dolphins CSA One Day Cup Squad

Andile Simelane, Marques Ackerman, Imran Tahir, Prenelan Subrayen (captain), Eathan Bosch, Nqobani Mokoena, Khaya Zondo, Slade van Staden, Hanu Viljoen, Romashan Pillay, Tristan Luus, Jon-Jon Smuts, Ottniel Baartman, Tshepang Dithole

As the CSA One Day Cup begins, all eyes will be on Tahir’s comeback and whether his experience can inspire the Dolphins to another successful domestic campaign.