Friday, August 15, 2008

Peterson returns for Champions Trophy

South Africa squad for Champions Trophy

Graeme Smith (capt), Johan Botha, Mark Boucher (wk), AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Albie Morkel, Morne Morkel, Andre Nel, Makhaya Ntini, Justin Ontong, Robin Peterson, Vernon Philander, Dale Steyn

South Africa have included Johan Botha and Robin Peterson in their 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next month.

Gerald Majola, the CEO of Cricket South Africa, said the spin duo were included to add depth to the squad. "The selection committee has opted for the two bowlers, considering the tournament takes place in the subcontinent," he said. "And having both left-arm and right-arm options in Robin Peterson and Johan Botha gives the selectors the variation they're looking for."

Botha, who is currently on tour in England with the South one-day side, has played 27 ODIs, taking 19 wickets. He last played against Bangladesh in March 2008.

Peterson, who was part of the Test squad which recently claimed victory in the four-match series in England, was, however, overlooked for the one-dayers. His previous appearance came in the 2007 World Cup, when he played against New Zealand

South Africa are placed in Group B in the league phase of the Champions Trophy, alongside Sri Lanka, England and New Zealand. They open their campaign when they take on New Zealand on September 14.