Bjorn Fortuin

Bjorn Fortuin is a left-arm orthodox spinner who brings control, accuracy and valuable leadership experience to South Africa’s bowling group for the ODI series against Australia. The Lions spinner was initially selected to lead a young Proteas side on their white-ball tour of Namibia, where he took on the captaincy across the tri-series and subsequent ODI matches. His performances and leadership on that tour have now been followed by selection in South Africa’s squad for the three-match Australia series. Fortuin is one of two specialist spinners in the squad alongside the experienced Keshav Maharaj.

Fortuin’s bowling is built around maintaining a disciplined line and length, using subtle changes in pace and flight to build pressure on batters. His left-arm angle can also make him useful against right-handed-heavy batting line-ups, particularly through the middle overs when captains look to control the scoring rate. The 31-year-old’s recent captaincy experience adds another dimension to his role, giving him familiarity with managing bowlers and making tactical decisions in international cricket. Against Australia, he could be particularly valuable if the surfaces offer assistance to spin. For fantasy cricket, Fortuin is an interesting bowling option because his ability to bowl a consistent spell can create opportunities for wickets as well as economy-rate points, while his recent form and increased responsibility make him a player to watch.