South Africa might soon say goodbye to Rassie van der Dussen, one of its most dependable batters. The 36-year-old hinted that the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy could be his last ICC event. This means South Africa needs to find a strong replacement to maintain their batting strength.
- Rassie van der Dussen has been a reliable middle-order batter.
- South Africa needs a strong replacement after the 2025 Champions Trophy.
- Three batters could be potential successors.
1. Lhuan-dre Pretorius
Lhuan-dre Pretorius is an explosive batter who performed brilliantly in SA20 2025. He was the top run-scorer for Paarl Royals and played key innings.
SA20 2025 Performance:
- 397 runs in 12 matches
- Strike rate: 166.80
- 3 fifties and crucial match-winning knocks
The challenge is that Pretorius is an opener, while Rassie played at No. 3 or No. 4. South Africa might need to adjust their batting order to fit him in. However, his aggressive batting style could bring firepower to the lineup.
2. Dewald Brevis
Dewald Brevis, also known as Baby AB, is seen as a future star of South African cricket. He has played in multiple T20 leagues, gaining valuable experience.
SA20 2025 Performance:
- 291 runs in 12 matches
- Average: 48.50
- Strike rate: 184.17
Brevis is not just a power hitter; he can build an innings and handle spin well. His counterattacking style makes him a perfect fit for modern ODI cricket. If given regular opportunities, he could become a key middle-order batter for South Africa.
3. Matthew Breetzke
Matthew Breetzke is another exciting prospect who has delivered under pressure. His SA20 2025 performance was modest, but he shined in the tri-series against Pakistan and New Zealand.
Tri-Series Performance:
- 233 runs in 2 matches
- One century (150) and a fifty
- Average: 116.50
Breetzke’s ability to handle top-class bowlers and play long innings makes him a great candidate. Though he is mainly an opener, South Africa might shift him to No. 3, making the transition from Rassie smoother.
Finding a replacement for Rassie van der Dussen is a tough task, but South Africa has exciting options. Lhuan-dre Pretorius offers aggression, Dewald Brevis brings versatility, and Matthew Breetzke provides stability. South Africa’s next generation looks promising, and the right choice could shape their ODI future.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
