IND vs SA | George Linde replaces JJ Smuts in South Africa's T20I squad

In what could perhaps come as a blessing in disguise for the South African National Team ahead of their T20Is against India, in-form all-rounder George Linde has replaced JJ Smuts in the team's T20I squad. The Cape Cobras all-rounder has impressed with both bat and ball in the limited-overs contests against India 'A', scoring valuable cameos with the bat, while also keeping things tight and providing timely breakthroughs with the ball.

His most notable contribution of the series came in the 2nd unofficial ODI, where he smacked an unbeaten 52 off just 25 balls, taking all the Indian bowlers to the cleaners. 

According to a press release by Cricket South Africa, Smuts "failed to meet the required standards of fitness", and thus has been subsequently left out of the squad. While Smuts usually operates at the top of the order, Linde is expected to play more of the finisher's role for the Proteas, coming in to bat at No.6 or No.7.

This is also Linde's first call-up to the national team, and should he make his debut, the 27-year-old will become the 83rd cricketer to represent South Africa in T20Is. 

South Africa T20I squad: Quinton de Kock (c), Rassie van der Dussen (vc), Temba Bavuma, Junior Dala, Bjorn Fortuin, Beuran Hendricks, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, George Linde