South Africa is all set to host England for an exciting cricket series, featuring both T20I and ODI matches. In preparation, South Africa Women’s team has announced their squads for both formats. This series is an excellent opportunity to introduce fresh talent and expand the team’s player pool, especially for the shorter T20 format.
Key Highlights of the Squad Selection
The experienced fast-bowling pair, Marizanne Kapp and Ayabonga Khaka, will sit out the T20I series. This decision gives South Africa a chance to test new players in the T20 format. Both Kapp and Khaka will return for the ODI series, strengthening the team’s lineup for the longer games.
In place of Kapp and Khaka, South Africa has recalled medium-pacer Eliz-Mari Marx, who impressed in the CSA Women’s Pro20 series with her wicket-taking abilities, along with all-rounder Nondumiso Shangase. Faye Tunnicliffe has also joined the T20I squad as a replacement for wicketkeeper-batter Mieke de Ridder, who has school commitments.
Players to Watch
Several key players are returning from the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) in Australia, including team captain Laura Wolvaardt and all-rounders Nadine de Klerk and Chloe Tryon. Their international experience is expected to add strength and depth to the team.
Bowling options include Ayanda Hlubi and Tumi Sekhukhune, who were part of the T20 World Cup squad but did not get a chance to play. This home series could provide them with the perfect platform to showcase their skills.
Thoughts from Interim Coach Dillon du Preez
Interim coach Dillon du Preez emphasized the importance of continuity and development within the team. He mentioned the team’s goal to build on their recent T20 World Cup performance, where they reached the finals.
“Our focus is on maintaining the positive approach we showed at the last T20 World Cup. Although the next T20 World Cup is two years away, we want to grow as a team and refine our T20 strategy,” said du Preez.
South Africa Women Squads for England Series
T20I Squad
- Laura Wolvaardt (c)
- Tazmin Brits
- Anneke Bosch
- Suné Luus
- Nadine de Klerk
- Chloe Tryon
- Annerie Dercksen
- Sinalo Jafta
- Faye Tunnicliffe
- Nonkululeko Mlaba
- Nondumiso Shangase
- Tumi Sekhukhune
- Ayanda Hlubi
- Eliz-Mari Marx
ODI Squad
- Laura Wolvaardt (c)
- Tazmin Brits
- Marizanne Kapp
- Anneke Bosch
- Suné Luus
- Chloe Tryon
- Lara Goodall
- Nadine de Klerk
- Annerie Dercksen
- Mieke de Ridder
- Sinalo Jafta
- Ayabonga Khaka
- Masabata Klaas
- Ayanda Hlubi
- Nonkululeko Mlaba
Schedule
The series will kick off with the T20 matches on November 24, 27, and 30, followed by ODIs on December 4, 8, and 11. A one-off Test match in Bloemfontein will take place from December 15 to 18, with the squad to be announced later.
This series is not only a chance for South Africa to test their talent but also serves as part of the Women’s Championship, an important pathway for qualification to next year’s ODI World Cup in India.