Who is Neil Brand? All you need to know about South Africa's new test captain

Neil Brand will lead South Africa in the two-match test series against New Zealand.

With majority of South African cricketers set to take part in the second season of SA20, South Africa announced a second-string team for the upcoming two-match test series against New Zealand, which will clash with the country’s franchise-based T20 league. Uncapped player Neil Brand has been appointed as the captain to lead the side. Born on April 12, 1996, Neil Brand is a promising South African cricketer known for his left-handed batting and left-arm orthodox bowling.  

Brand’s cricket journey started when he moved to King’s College, Taunton, initially aspiring to qualify to play for England cricket team. However, in 2017, he returned to South Africa.

Neil Brand to lead South Africa

Neil made a mark in the cricketing scene with his first-class debut for Cardiff MCCU against Glamorgan on April 2, 2015. His List A debut for Northerns in the 2017–18 CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge on March showcased his potential on a broader stage.

Brand’s cricketing skills extended to the Twenty20 format as he made his debut for Northerns in the 2018 Africa T20 Cup. His consistent performances earned him a place in the Northerns’ squad for the 2021–22 cricket season in South Africa. .

Neil Brand’s breakthrough moment came in November 2023, when he was named the captain of South Africa A while hosting West Indies A in their backyard. This marked a significant step in his career, hinting at the national team’s radar.

In 51 first-class matches, he has scored 2906 runs with a batting average of 39.27. His left-arm orthodox bowling has also seen success, claiming 72 wickets in the same format.

Despite his remarkable domestic and List-A performances, Neil Brand is yet to make his debut for the national side. The upcoming test series against New Zealand will provide him with the perfect platform to showcase his leadership skills and make a lasting impact as the team’s skipper.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.