Convenor of selectors Linda Zondi has hinted that either the veteran Hashim Amla or fellow batsman Aiden Markam will not feature in South Africa’s squad for the World Cup, to be announced on Thursday.

Whether Amla will be included in the squad for the global showpiece in the United Kingdom later this year has yielded plenty of debate. The candidacy of Markram and opening batsman Reeza Hendricks, too, has been argued.

‘There are a couple of decisions that need to be made, especially around Markram and Amla, but we have to put our feelings aside and make a decision. Obviously, not everyone will agree with us, but we have to accept that,’ Zondi was quoted as saying by Eyewitness News.

‘There are no emotions when it comes to making those decisions, but we are pleased. I can’t wait for Friday morning when all of this is done, and people can have their say.’

Zondi has been liaising with head coach Ottis Gibson, whose contract with Cricket South Africa expires after the World Cup, about the composition of the 15-man squad.

‘I have been speaking to the coach every day. Every coach comes with his own philosophy. Ottis obviously has his philosophy. He will bring in players he is confident can represent that philosophy. So, we weigh up form and experience equally,’ added Zondi.

‘We look at players who are playing with confidence and find a balance. The senior players bring a lot of experience, while the younger guys are filled with confidence and could potentially win you the tournament.’

England and South Africa will open the World Cup at The Oval in London on 30 May.

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