South Africa have announced a bold and youthful playing XI for the opening Test of the two-match series against Zimbabwe, set to begin June 28 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The squad features three debutants, including the much-anticipated inclusion of Dewald Brevis, who headlines a new generation of Proteas talent aiming to make their mark on the international stage.
Dewald Brevis: From T20 sensation to Test debut
Brevis, often dubbed ‘Baby AB’ for his explosive batting style reminiscent of AB de Villiers, will make his Test debut after a prolific run in domestic and franchise cricket. The 22-year-old right-hander has been in scintillating form, amassing 573 runs in 12 innings during the 2024/25 first-class season, including two centuries and two fifties at an average of 47.75. Brevis’s selection is a reward for his consistency and ability to adapt his aggressive approach to the longer format, dispelling any notion that he is merely a white-ball specialist.
Brevis’s journey to the Test side has been closely followed since his record-breaking exploits at the 2022 Under-19 World Cup, where he scored 507 runs and was named Player of the Tournament. His recent performances for the Titans and his impactful stints in the T20 Blast and SA20 have solidified his reputation as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects.
Other Debutants: Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Codi Yusuf
Joining Brevis in earning their first Test caps are 19-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius and fast bowling all-rounder Codi Yusuf. Pretorius, who enjoyed a breakthrough season in the CSA 4-Day series with three centuries at an average of 72.66, has been lauded for his temperament and ability to play long innings. Yusuf, meanwhile, forced his way into the squad with 28 wickets in the domestic season, including 4 four-wicket hauls.
South Africa’s playing XI for the first Test against Zimbabwe
Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Wiaan Mulder, David Bedingham, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Kyle Verreynne, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj (captain), Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka
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