South Africa are open to experimentation ahead of the ICC World Cup next year, and hence, they have rested their regular spinner—Imran Tahir for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.

Keshav Maharaj has been added to the ODI squad alongside Tabraiz Shamsi in a bid to find out the best possible option to support Tahir at the World Cup.

“We have taken the strategic decision to rest Imran Tahir so that we can get a clearer picture as to who our best second spinner is to back him up at the World Cup,” selection convener Linda Zondi said.

“Imran will be our first- choice spinner at the World Cup but, if we play him against Sri Lanka, it is unlikely that we will be able to play both Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj.

“By taking this route, we will be able to play the two of them together. Tabraiz has been the outstanding bowler in franchise white ball cricket this past season. Keshav has been outstanding for us in red ball cricket and we need to give him the opportunity to show us what he can do at international level in the ODI format.”

Chris Morris was unavailable for selection due to an injury sustained during the IPL this year. On the other hand, All-rounder Wiaan Mulderbatsman has earned his maiden national call-up. He will join batsman Reeza Hendricks and fast-bowler Junior Dala, who have represented the rainbow nation only in T20Is so far.

Khaya Zondo and Farhaan Behardien, who were part of the squad during the South Africa’s last ODI series against India, have not been included in the 15-member squad this time. Both have been named in the South Africa A team and Zondo will be captaining the side during its upcoming series against India A.

The Proteas now have the tough job of replacing two of their most prolific players, AB de Villiers and Morne Morkel, as they have retired from international cricket. The African team’s next assignments are likely to give them a clear picture of their strength without these two cricketers.

South Africa will play Sri Lanka in two Tests, five ODIs, and one T20I. The Test-series will start from July 12 and the ODI series will be played between July 29 and August 12. The one-off T20I will bring down the curtain on South Africa’s tour of Sri Lanka on August 14. The Proteas will then host Zimbabwe for three ODIs and as many T20Is later this year.