In an announcement made by CSA on Monday, the Proteas men’s contracted squad for the 2025/26 season was released, but what stood out more than anything was the absence of keeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen.
His omission from the contracted list was acknowledged by CSA, with the statement suggesting that “discussions regarding Heinrich Klaasen’s future are ongoing, and a final decision will be made in due course”.
It’s a clear indication that the 33-year-old may no longer be available for all of the Proteas’ future limited-overs series, and perhaps he is considering focusing on T20 leagues around the world.
Whatever the case may be, it does seem like a major blow for the Proteas considering just how Klaasen is to the national cause, with the big-hitting batsman having become one of the most consistent and impactful players in the white ball teams.
With 18 national contracts and two hybrid contracts awarded, David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen will be contracted to participate in specific agreed-upon bilateral tours and ICC events.
National contracts have been awarded for the first time to Titans seam bowler Lizaad Williams and Warriors all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy. They are joined by Lions fast bowler Kwena Maphaka, who made his international debut in all formats this past season.
Lions all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, Western Province batter David Bedingham, and his provincial teammate Kyle Verreynne all earned contract upgrades during the current season and have been retained for the upcoming season.
Proteas 2025-26 contracted squad without Heinrich Klaasen
Temba Bavuma (Lions), David Bedingham (WP), Nandre Burger (WP), Gerald Coetzee (Titans), Tony de Zorzi (WP), Reeza Hendricks (Lions), Marco Jansen (Dragons), Keshav Maharaj (Dolphins), Kwena Maphaka (Lions), Aiden Markram (Titans), Wiaan Mulder (Lions), Senuran Muthusamy (Warriors), Lungi Ngidi (Titans), Kagiso Rabada (Lions), Ryan Rickelton (Lions), Tristan Stubbs (Warriors), Kyle Verreynne (WP), Lizaad Williams (Titans).
Hybrid contracts: David Miller (Dolphins), Rassie van der Dussen (Lions).
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS NEWS?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
