Skipper Temba Bavuma has returned from injury to lead a full strength Proteas side in their two-Test series against Sri Lanka later this month.
Bavuma recovered from an elbow injury which ruled him out of the recent two-match Test series against hosts Bangladesh.
If the Proteas win both Tests against Sri Lanka and then the next two against Pakistan, they will book their place in the World Test Championship WTC final at Lords in June next year.
Proteas Test coach Shukri Conrad said his side was determined to make the WTC final, and made his squad selection accordingly.
Strongest possible sideWeve picked the strongest possible side to ensure we stay competitive and keep our hopes alive for a place in the World Test Championship Final, said Conrad.
