The recently concluded Pakistan ODI Tri-Series provided fans with a preview of the venues for the Champions Trophy 2025. This tournament, hosted in Pakistan, saw New Zealand secure their spot in the final following impressive wins in their first two matches. Despite initially appearing as a potential challenger, South Africa has faced difficulties, missing key opportunities.
They now find themselves in a must-win situation against Pakistan during their final group-stage match at the National Stadium in Karachi. One of the talking points of the series has been South Africa’s squad limitation. At the beginning of the tournament, a number of their key players were away due to SA20 commitments.
ALSO READ: Muttiah Muralitharan Highlights The Importance Of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s Form
The team was reduced to only 12 players, leading to one of the most unusual moments in international cricket: fielding coach Wandile Gwavu stepped in as a substitute fielder. His active role on the field, directing players and assisting in setting positions, created a surreal scene, something rarely witnessed at this elite level of play. This isn’t South Africa’s first encounter such a strange situation.
We don’t see that happening too often! 😅
South Africa’s fielding coach Wandile Gwavu came on as a substitute fielder during the New Zealand innings! 👀#TriNationSeriesonFanCode pic.twitter.com/ilU5Zj2Xxn
— FanCode (@FanCode) February 10, 2025
Just last season, former South African cricketer and then-batting coach JP Duminy had to take the field as a substitute fielder during a match in Abu Dhabi after illness struck several players. While emergency substitutions are not unheard of, the frequency with which South Africa has found itself in these situations raises questions about their squad management in overseas tournaments.
ALSO READ: Matt Prior Criticizes England’s Sloppy Performance Against India In ODI Series
With the Tri-Series reaching its final stages, South Africa will look to finish on a high with a win over Pakistan in their last match. That would not only send them into the final against New Zealand but also give them much-needed momentum going into the Champions Trophy 2025, where conditions in Pakistan will demand adaptability and depth in squad selection.
