Conrad defends 'really tough' calls ahead of the trip to India

PROTEAS coach Shukri Conrad has admitted it was difficult informing players such as Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs that they would not be travelling to the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup in India.

- ONGAMA GCWABE

PROTEAS coach Shukri Conrad has explained why he has left players such as Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs out of his T20 World Cup squad.

(AFP)

Many were surprised when Conrad announced South Africa's squad without Stubbs and Rickelton - two talented players who have consistently been in and around the national setup across all three formats.

However, the reality is that both players have endured a lean patch for an extended period, and Conrad felt he had to make the tough calls.

Tony de Zorzi and Jason Smith have effectively replaced Stubbs and Rickelton in the batting order, and the coach insists there was a clear rationale behind the move. De Zorzi has demonstrated great temperament and skill against spin on the subcontinent - albeit in the Test arena - while Smith has impressed with his consistent domestic form.