RISING STAR FILE. South Africa's Kwena Maphaka (right) has already played for the Proteas in all three formats. Picture: Rodger Bosch / AFP
Image: Rodger Bosch / AFP
It’s not often that the Proteas men’s team have the chance of taking an 18-year-old to a major tournament like the Champions Trophy, but in calling on travelling reserve Kwena Maphaka that presents a unique opportunity for the team.
Barring injury to any of the 15-member playing squad, Maphaka cannot be considered for selection for any of the matches but that doesn’t mean it won’t be a massive learning experience for the youngster.
In fact, Maphaka has already gained considerable experience despite his age. The left-arm quick has already played an entire season in the SA20, and featured in two matches in the Indian Premier League for the Mumbai Indians.
Despite having played just four first class and another four List A matches, Maphaka has already debuted for South Africa in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test cricket.
The powerfully-built pacer who can already bowl around the 150km per hour mark, has also already played five T20 Internationals (T20Is) for the Proteas.
It means Maphaka is certainly on the radar for the Proteas, as a future leader of the bowling attack.
As a left-arm fast bowler, he is even more unique and having him in the lineup will always add an extra dimension to the team.
Maphaka was also included in the Tri-Nation series against hosts Pakistan and New Zealand. South Africa lost both their matches, but Maphaka did not feature in either clash.
Had Maphaka played in either or both matches, it would indicate that the Proteas selectors intend on playing him in the Champions Trophy if one of their quicks picks up an injury.
Therefore it would seem Maphaka will carry the drinks at the Champions Trophy while he soaks up the experience with the team at a major event.
Maphaka’s time has not yet arrived, but it’s coming.