Tristan Stubbs has been given the nod ahead of Jason Smith for the Proteas’ T20 World Cup opener against Canada. Rassie van der Dussen believes it is the right call to play Tristan Stubbs ahead of Jason Smith in the ongoing 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, citing the vital importance of experience in ICC events. When Cricket South Africa announced the squad for the 10th edition of the tournament, Smith was the surprise addition, while Stubbs was a notable omission from the initial list.
That was just over a month ago, coinciding with the start of the SA20’s fourth season. Since then, Smith has maintained his form, showing glimpses of his power-packed game in the three-match series against the West Indies last month. On the other hand, Stubbs completely transformed his fortunes during the SA20, leading the Sunrisers Eastern Cape to their third trophy and his first as captain.
Given that Smith was in the original squad, many expected him to start ahead of Stubbs — especially after captain Aiden Markram confirmed the two were competing for the number six spot. However, Van der Dussen believes the decision to go with Stubbs is warranted. “Smith is sitting out.
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I think, in a World Cup, experience is such a big, vital cog in the engine. Stubbo, having played in a World Cup and the IPL, I think it’s the right call because he’ll probably be more familiar with the conditions,” Van der Dussen noted. “He has that experience to draw on, and he batted beautifully against Canada.” Van der Dussen may have missed the final cut for the tournament himself, but his belief in the squad remains unshaken.
The 37-year-old insists the Proteas possess a batting unit capable of going all the way. “Batters in form is a massive thing going into a tournament. All the guys in that top six are in form and have come off good SA20s.
The top three are looking really solid,” he said. “Dewald Brevis hasn’t fired yet, but I feel he’s going to fire at the right time. The top six looks settled with the experience of Quinny [de Kock], Dave [Miller], and Aiden.” Van der Dussen also highlighted Markram’s role, noting that his experience opening the batting in the IPL will be invaluable.
“Aiden opening the batting is his best position. He had a great IPL there and looks really comfortable at the top. They are ticking a lot of the right boxes. The next few games against Afghanistan and New Zealand will be tough, but I genuinely think this team is a really strong unit with every chance to go all the way.”
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