Botha pleased with tour success

Johan Botha led a successful trip for South Africa's second team © Getty Images

South Africa's Emerging Players team has arrived home after winning the one-day tournament in Brisbane, where they defeated New Zealand in the final. The side, led by Johan Botha, came out on top by 82 runs and defended the title they won last year.

Vernon Philander, the allrounder who made his ODI debut against Ireland in June, was the star performer in the final with a 50-ball 59 and 3 for 20. New Zealand included four players with international experience while the South Africans included six players with full caps.

"I think it was a good all round effort from everyone. The guys were on the ball from the time we arrived despite of the jetlag," said Botha. "Vernon had an awesome tournament with both bat and ball. Our seamers did a good job of dominating the opposition batsmen and helping Thandi Tshabalala and myself to play the role of attacking off-spinners.

"The tournament was a good experience for all and I hope we can take this form into the season ahead and take the lessons learnt into our future careers. The coaching and support staff are to be commended for the hard work they put in and making it possible for us to defend the title."