Ontong to lead Invitation XI against Pakistan

Justin Ontong has been named captain of the South African Invitation XI for the tour match against Pakistan at Buffalo Park, East London from January 25 to 28. The selectors did not pick any players from the Titans and Lions franchises because those teams will be playing a first-class match at that time.

"It is nevertheless a very strong team drawn from the other four franchises and includes five players who have represented the Proteas across the various formats," the team's coach Vinnie Barnes said. "We have achieved a balance between established franchise players who have been doing well in the Sunfoil Series as well as giving an opportunity to younger players who have shown promise."

The squad includes Ayabulela Gqamane, the Warriors bowler who has taken 96 wickets in 25 first-class matches. Wayne Parnell, who has a wrist injury, was expected to be fit in time for the game.

SA Invitation XI: Justin Ontong (capt), Kyle Abbott, Cody Chetty, Ayabulela Gqamane, Simon Harmer, Beuran Hendricks, Davy Jacobs, Wayne Parnell, Andrew Puttick, Vaughn van Jaarsveld, Stiaan van Zyl, Dane Vilas.