By Victoria Hamilton 
The Paarl Royals have laid down an early marker ahead of SA20 Season 4, revealing a refined squad that blends seasoned leadership, dynamic youth, and elite international flair. The franchise has retained four South African stars and made two significant international signings as they prepare for another title challenge.
Royals Retain Their South African Core
David Miller will once again lead the side. The veteran finisher, who has now surpassed 500 T20 appearances, remains a consistent force for the Royals, delivering close to 60 runs per innings at a strike rate of 136.8 last season. His calm demeanor and leadership are central to the Royals’ identity.
Joining Miller is Lhuandre Pretorius, the 19-year-old sensation who topped the Royals’ scoring charts in 2024 with 397 runs. His swift rise from U-19 prospect to national Test and T20I player showcases the Royals’ commitment to nurturing talent.
Rubin Hermann, last season’s breakout player, will continue as the team’s designated wildcard. After notching 333 runs at an average of 41, the stylish right-hander earned a national T20I debut and now returns ready to lead from No. 3.
Bjorn Fortuin, born and raised in Paarl, provides a tactical edge with the new ball. His powerplay control, reflected in an economy rate of 6.47, combined with handy lower-order contributions, secures his spot as a bowling linchpin on home soil.
World-Class Spin Power: Mujeeb and Raza Join the Royals
To bolster their spin options at spin-friendly Boland Park, the Royals have retained Mujeeb ur Rahman, their leading wicket-taker in 2024 with 14 scalps. Known for his mystery spin and experience across global leagues, Mujeeb brings tactical depth and familiarity with the Royals setup.
Making his SA20 debut is Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza, a globally respected T20 all-rounder with over 5,900 runs and 178 wickets. Raza adds not just skill, but experience, leadership, and a winning mindset.
Sangakkara: “We’re Building for a Title Run”
Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara expressed confidence in the squad’s direction:
“David’s leadership, Lhuandre’s energy, Rubin’s rise, and Bjorn’s consistency form the ideal core. While we had to make tough calls, including parting with Ngidi and Maphaka, we’ve prioritized long-term value. Bringing in Raza and Mujeeb gives us match-winners who understand the demands of top-tier T20 cricket.”
Sangakkara also paid tribute to Joe Root, who is unavailable due to England commitments.
“Joe was instrumental—not just with bat and ball, but also mentoring our young stars. Rubin cherishes the bat Root gifted him before leaving. Raza will now fill that mentor-leader role.”
With a powerful foundation and room for strategic additions at the auction, the Paarl Royals are primed to contest for the SA20 2025 title, blending local promise with global pedigree.
Zainab Shafiq