Senuran Muthusamy

Senuran Muthusamy, a versatile all-rounder, is set to represent South Africa in their maiden ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11–15, 2025. Known for his left-handed batting and left-arm orthodox spin, Muthusamy brings balance to the Proteas squad. His Tamil ancestry, rooted in Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, adds a unique cultural dimension to his journey, making him a point of pride for South African and Indian cricket fans alike. As a key squad member for the AUS vs SA WTC Final, Muthusamy’s disciplined approach and all-round skills could play a pivotal role in this historic clash.

Early Life and Background

Born on February 22, 1994, in Durban, South Africa, Senuran Muthusamy is part of the “Born Free” generation, growing up in the post-apartheid era with access to equal opportunities. Raised in Durban, home to South Africa’s largest Indian population, he maintains a strong connection to his Tamil heritage, with family ties to Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu. Educated at Clifton School, an independent institution in Durban, Muthusamy benefited from high-quality coaching and facilities from a young age. He represented KwaZulu-Natal from Under-11 to Under-19 levels, showcasing his potential as a left-handed batsman and left-arm spinner. Despite his cricketing talent, he pursued a bachelor’s degree in social science (media and marketing) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, reflecting his initial hesitation to rely solely on cricket as a career.

Domestic Career and Breakthrough

Muthusamy’s domestic career took off with KwaZulu-Natal, making his first-class debut in 2013. He joined the Dolphins in the 2014–15 season, where his batting initially took precedence, inspired by Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara. The 2016–17 Sunfoil Series marked a turning point, with Muthusamy scoring a career-best 181 against the Knights and taking 27 wickets. In 2017–18, he finished second on the Dolphins’ first-class bowling charts with 33 wickets at an average of 26.54, earning four awards, including Player of the Year. His performances led to his inclusion in South Africa’s spin camp in India (2018) and the South Africa A tour to India (2019), preparing him for international challenges. Muthusamy later moved to the Warriors in Gqeberha, continuing to contribute with bat and ball.

International Career

Muthusamy made his Test debut against India in Visakhapatnam on October 2, 2019, a “special” moment given his Indian roots. He claimed Virat Kohli as his first Test wicket, dismissing the Indian captain caught and bowled for 20. Despite limited opportunities, he has played four Tests, with his most recent appearance during South Africa’s 2-0 series win in Bangladesh in October 2024. In the second Test, he scored an unbeaten 68 and took five wickets, including a pivotal spell alongside Keshav Maharaj, helping secure an innings victory by 273 runs. His selection for the WTC Final 2025 squad underscores his value as a spin-bowling all-rounder, especially in potentially spin-friendly conditions at Lord’s. Muthusamy also debuted in ODIs during a Tri-Series in Pakistan in February 2025, showcasing his growing versatility.

Role in WTC Final 2025

In the AUS vs SA WTC Final, Muthusamy is one of two frontline spinners alongside Keshav Maharaj, providing South Africa with a balanced attack. His left-arm spin offers control and wicket-taking ability, particularly in the fourth innings when Lord’s pitches may assist spinners. As a lower-order batsman, he can contribute valuable runs, adding depth to a batting lineup featuring Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma, and Tristan Stubbs. Head coach Shukri Conrad highlighted the squad’s consistency, with Muthusamy’s inclusion reflecting his reliability. His disciplined bowling style, described as “crafty” and “clever with angles,” complements the Proteas’ pace-heavy attack led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen.

Playing Style and Strengths

Muthusamy is a steady all-rounder, not known for prodigious spin but valued for his consistency and adaptability. His batting, averaging 31 in first-class cricket with over 4,000 runs, allows him to anchor or accelerate as needed. His bowling focuses on control and subtle variations, making him effective in attritional spells. Influenced by Rangana Herath and Shakib Al Hasan, Muthusamy’s work ethic and versatility make him a “good, solid cricketer” who performs the basics well, as noted by fans and coaches. His ability to contribute in all departments enhances South Africa’s tactical options against Australia’s formidable batting lineup.