South Africa bring Wiaan Mulder for 5th ODI vs PAK

South Africa team management has decided to rope in all-rounder Wiaan Mulder for the fifth ODI against Pakistan. Mulder has featured in seven ODIs so far for Proteas and with series leveled at 2-2, the hosts are looking to enhance their strength for the series decider.

Wiaan Mulder a contender for number seven spot

The inclusion of Wiaan Mulder in the squad is an indication of the fact that South Africa is still looking to finalize the number seven spot in the team.

Andile Phehlukwayo is currently playing that role in the team and he has done well so far in the ongoing series against Pakistan. However the team management may be looking at few more options and with the World Cup approaching, South Africa would be eager to know what their options are.

A right-hand batsman and a medium-pace bowler, Mulder has featured in seven ODIs so far. However, he hasn’t made any impact so far. He averages 14.25 with the bat and has picked up seven wickets at an average of 36.42.

He was part of South Africa’s squad for the Zimbabwe tour in September 2018 when he faced an Achilles tendon injury. He then regained fitness in January this year and has done well in domestic cricket.

SA vs PAK series leveled at 2-2

South Africa won the second and the third ODI after Pakistan won the first ODI with ease. But in the fourth ODI, the visitors completely outplayed the hosts to keep the series alive.

With both teams winning two matches each, the fifth ODI will decide the fate of the series.

Also read: MS Dhoni doubtful for the fourth ODI against New Zealand 

South Africa’s squad for the final ODI

Faf du Plessis (c), Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock, Beuran Hendricks,Reeza Hendricks,Heinrich Klaasen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Duanne Olivier, Dane Paterson, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir, Rassie van der Dussen