JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (CMC) – Seven Test players have been named in a strong 15-man South Africa ‘A’ squad to face West Indies ‘A’ in a three-match four-day series bowling off here later this month.

Batsmen Keegan Petersen, Tony de Zorzi, and Zubayr Hamza, along with fast bowlers Duanne Olivier, Dane Patterson, and Hardus Viljoen, and off-spinner Dane Piedt will form the nucleus of the squad led by Neil Brand, a left-arm spinning all-rounder who is without Test experience.

Experienced first-class batsman David Bedingham, rising batting star Ruan de Swardt, seasoned gloveman Clyde Fortuin, and inexperienced fast-bowling all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana have been called up for the first time.

“We’ve selected a blend of experienced campaigners and promising talents for the upcoming South Africa ‘A’ tour against West Indies ‘A’,” said Proteas red-ball Coach Shukri Conrad.

“This tour holds immense significance as it will afford players the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities as we prepare for the international season ahead and build depth within our red-ball pipeline.

“The squad was selected with the two-match Test series against New Zealand in mind and features players who boast international experience and some that have garnered excellent performances domestically over the last couple of seasons.

“Neil Brand will captain the side as he possesses that toughness and resilience that we are always after. He has a lot to offer apart from being an opening batter and we’re excited to show what he’s about at this level.”

West Indies ‘A’ are yet to name their squad for the tour, which will run from November 21 to December 8, and see matches being played at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, Buffalo Park in East London, and Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein.

SQUAD: Neil Brand (captain), David Bedingham, Ruan de Swardt, Tony de Zorzi, Clyde Fortuin, Zubayr Hamza, Tshepo Moreki, Mihlali Mpongwana, Duanne Olivier, Dane Patterson, Keegan Petersen, Dane Piedt, Raynard van Tonder, Hardus Viljoen, Khaya Zondo.