Two Proteas players have returned to Western Province ahead of their One-Day Cup clash against the North West Dragons at Newlands on Wednesday.

Salieg Nackerdien’s men, who lost their opening match of the tournament against the Central Gauteng Lions, welcome back captain Kyle Verreynne and all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana who both played for the Proteas in the recent Tri-Series in Pakistan.

“We are getting a few national players back so that will give us some positive energy, especially with the bat.” said stand-in WP captain George Linde

“It is a big boost for us as they are big players for the team and we’re happy to have them back. Kyle with the bat and Mihlali with bat and ball will add so much value to the team and that is something we welcome back with open arms.”

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Linde was pleased with the team’s effort against the Lions despite the defeat.

“Our bowlers worked very hard and bowled really well to restrict the Lions to 260 on Saturday,” he said.

“We stayed in the fight and the result could have gone either way on the day, but the team showed resilience and strong ability to rise above and that is something positive we are taking, going to the second match of the campaign.”

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