Imran Tahir Set for Dolphins Comeback at 46 in CSA One Day Cup

Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir is set to make a return to the Dolphins squad at the age of 46 for their CSA One Day Cup title defence. The team will begin their campaign against Warriors on Friday in Gqeberha. Tahir, who previously represented Dolphins from the 2010–11 season to 2019–20, rejoins the squad at a crucial time. Dolphins will be without several key players who are set to travel with South Africa national cricket team for a five-match T20I series in New Zealand starting March 15. Alongside Tahir, JJ Smuts has also been included in the squad after recently featuring for Italy in the T20 World Cup.

 Dolphins head coach Quinton Friend highlighted the importance of Tahir’s return, emphasizing his experience and team spirit. He noted that with several first-choice players unavailable due to international commitments, bringing in a seasoned player like Tahir would strengthen the squad both on and off the field. Friend also underlined the significance of the domestic 50-over competition, especially with South Africa set to host the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027. He stated that tournaments like the CSA One Day Cup play a vital role in preparing players for the demands of the format and building a strong national squad. Several Dolphins players, including Keshav Maharaj, Nqobani Mokoena, Ottneil Baartman, Prenelan Subrayen, Eathan Bosch, Andile Simelane, and Jason Smith, are part of the broader national setup. While most are available for the opening match, the team will still face challenges due to player absences. Despite this, the Dolphins management remains optimistic. Friend expressed confidence in the team’s development pipeline over the past two years, stating that emerging players are ready to step up and perform. He reiterated that the team’s goal remains to maintain consistency and compete strongly for the title. Dolphins One Day Cup Squad: Andile Simelane, Marques Ackerman, Imran Tahir, Prenelan Subrayen (captain), Eathan Bosch, Nqobani Mokoena, Khaya Zondo, Slade van Staden, Hanu Viljoen, Romashan Pillay, Tristan Luus, Jon-Jon Smuts, Ottniel Baartman, Tshepang Dithole.