Proteas Add Rising Star Kwena Maphaka as Dewald Brevis Gears Up for ODI Debut Against Australia

Cairns [Australia], August 18, 2025: South Africa have given their ODI squad a youthful boost ahead of the upcoming three-match series against Australia. Teenage left-arm pacer Kwena Maphaka has been added to the 17-member squad, while explosive batter Dewald Brevis looks set to make his much-anticipated debut in the 50-over format.

Maphaka Earns Call-Up After Dominating T20I Series

19-year-old Kwena Maphaka’s inclusion comes on the back of a sensational T20I series against Australia. The youngster emerged as the leading wicket-taker, bagging nine wickets across three games, including a standout four-wicket haul. His consistency, pace, and ability to trouble top-order batters have impressed selectors, giving South Africa a promising left-arm option in their pace attack.

With only two ODI caps under his belt so far, Maphaka is eager to cement his place in the national setup. His recent performances have drawn praise from senior players and fans alike, making him one of the most exciting prospects in South African cricket.

Brevis Poised for ODI Debut

All eyes, however, will be on Dewald Brevis, the 22-year-old batter often compared to AB de Villiers for his fearless stroke play. Brevis dominated the recent T20I series despite South Africa losing 2-1, finishing as the highest run-scorer with 180 runs. His tally included a breathtaking century and a half-century, averaging 90 with a strike rate exceeding 200.

Captain Temba Bavuma acknowledged Brevis’ growth and praised his hunger for runs. “It’s always refreshing to see young players stepping up. The big buzz has been around Brevis, and he has shown exactly what he’s capable of. I am excited to see what he brings to the ODI format,” Bavuma said.

Bavuma Returns from Injury, Ready to Lead

The ODI series also marks Bavuma’s return to competitive cricket following South Africa’s historic ICC World Test Championship win in June. The skipper had suffered a hamstring injury during that final but confirmed he is fully fit and ready to take charge once again. Bavuma will bat at number three, behind openers Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram, as the Proteas look to strike the right balance in Australian conditions.

Australia Bolster Squad with Labuschagne’s Return

On the other side, hosts Australia have recalled experienced batter Marnus Labuschagne after his absence from the Test series against the West Indies. The Aussies will, however, be without their regular skipper Pat Cummins, with Mitchell Marsh continuing to lead the side after guiding them to a 2-1 victory in the T20I leg of the tour.

Marsh admitted that adjusting from T20Is to ODIs would require focus but remained confident. “Spending over three hours in the field will be a shift for a few of us, but our approach as a group doesn’t change. It’s a different format, but the basics remain the same,” Marsh commented.

Series Schedule and Venues

The three-match ODI series begins in Cairns on Tuesday, before moving to Mackay for the second and third matches. Both sides are keen to fine-tune their squads as the cricketing calendar edges closer to major ICC tournaments.

Why This Series Matters

For South Africa, the series is more than just preparation — it is a chance to test their emerging stars against one of the strongest teams in world cricket. With players like Maphaka and Brevis stepping onto the big stage, the Proteas are looking to build a side that combines youthful energy with experienced campaigners like Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, and Keshav Maharaj.

Australia, meanwhile, will focus on regaining rhythm in ODIs, especially with the Champions Trophy on the horizon. The return of Labuschagne alongside power hitters like Travis Head and Cameron Green gives them depth, while their bowling attack led by Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa remains formidable.

Full Squads

Australia ODI Squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Adam Zampa.

South Africa ODI Squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Kwena Maphaka, Senuran Muthusamy, Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen.

Final Thoughts

The ODI clash between South Africa and Australia promises to be a thrilling contest. With young talents like Brevis and Maphaka stepping into the spotlight, the series could signal the dawn of a new generation for the Proteas. At the same time, Australia’s blend of experience and fresh faces makes them a formidable opponent at home. Fans can expect competitive cricket, dramatic moments, and plenty of fireworks as both sides battle it out in the 50-over format.