Lesego Senokwane Earns Maiden Call-Up for South Africa’s Tour of Zimbabwe
After impressing in domestic cricket, Lesego Senokwane has been rewarded with his first senior Test squad selection for South Africa. The announcement came ahead of a two-match Test series in Bulawayo starting on June 28.
Why Senokwane’s Inclusion Matters
Domestic form says it all: At 28, Senokwane has been scoring consistently in South Africa’s 4-day domestic circuit. He notched up over 500 runs, including two centuries—one of them a double-ton (205 runs)—for the Knights, and finished among the leading run-getters in national four-day competition
Trusted talent: His performance with South Africa ‘A’ in the West Indies tour only strengthened his case. He scored heavily and was one of five notable newcomers on that tour .
Recognized fit: His import to the Titans this season shows that franchises also see his potential, noting his maturity and temperament
Series Context & Opportunity
South Africa rested key players—including Bavuma, Rabada, Rabada, Jansen, Markram, Rickelton, Stubbs—fresh from their World Test Championship triumph. This meant several spots opened up
Senokwane joins four other uncapped players (including Pretorius and Codi Yusuf), signaling South Africa's intent to refresh the lineup and test depth ahead of future challenges
What Senokwane Brings to the Table
Patience and perseverance: His domestic record highlights a solid batting average (31.5 in first-class cricket) and consistency in long-format innings .
Experience under pressure: His double-century for South Africa ‘A’ in Bulawayo showed he can adapt and excel in conditions similar to those expected in the Test series
Balanced skillset: While primarily a batsman, he can bowl off-breaks, making him a valuable option in the longer format.
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Lesego Senokwane’s selection isn’t a wildcard—it’s the latest step in a career built on consistency and key performances under pressure. With senior players rested, this Zimbabwe tour offers the perfect proving ground. If Senokwane delivers, he could firmly secure a place in South Africa’s batting lineup—and even add depth as a part-time spin option.
Keep an eye on his performance in Bulawayo: it could mark the start of a significant Test career for the 28-year-old.
