South Africa Women have revealed their squad for the much-anticipated Test against England, which kicks off on December 15 in Bloemfontein. This match is a historic moment as it marks South Africa’s first home Test since 2002.
The squad includes key additions, with fast bowler Tumi Sekhukhune making her way back into the Test setup. Notably, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, and Chloé Tryon have also been named in the squad, bringing depth and experience to the team.
Key Additions to the Squad
- Tumi Sekhukhune (Fast Bowler)
- Sekhukhune is a like-for-like replacement for Ayabonga Khaka, who isn’t part of the red-ball strategy for South Africa.
- Known for her control and consistency, Tumi is expected to play a vital role in South Africa’s bowling attack.
- Lara Goodall (Left-Hand Batter)
- Lara Goodall returns to bring versatility to the batting order as a left-hander, offering variety in South Africa’s top order.
- Ayanda Hlubi (Seam Bowler)
- With her impactful seam bowling, Hlubi provides the squad with much-needed pace variation, adding a new dimension to the bowling lineup.
- Chloé Tryon (All-Rounder)
- The experienced all-rounder is back in the Test setup, bringing a mix of aggression with both bat and ball.
Squad Adjustments & Players Left Out
While South Africa has welcomed back several players, three names have been dropped from the squad that played against India in July.
Players Excluded from the Squad:
- Nondumiso Shangase (Offspinner)
- Delmi Tucker (All-Rounder)
- Eliz-Mari Marx (All-Rounder)
Despite these changes, wicketkeeper Mieke de Ridder retained her place, and she is expected to be a key player behind the stumps.
Selectors’ Insight on Squad Changes
According to Clinton du Preez, the convenor of selectors, the selection strategy was focused on achieving better balance in the squad. He stated:
“We reviewed the previous Test squad and made adjustments to bring balance to the team. Lara adds versatility to the batting line-up as a left-hander, Hlubi provides variation as an impact seam bowler, and Tumi has been consistent in her past performances, offering control to the bowling attack alongside our other bowlers.”
These adjustments aim to strengthen both South Africa’s batting depth and bowling options, giving the team a well-rounded lineup for the clash against England.
Head Coach’s Perspective on the Test Challenge
Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi is optimistic about the upcoming Test, especially since it’s a rare opportunity for South Africa Women to play at home. According to Mashimbyi:
“It will go a long way for the ladies in terms of them understanding their game and what’s needed in the longer version of the game.”
He also emphasized the importance of patience and focus, especially in Test cricket, where the mental game is just as important as the physical one. His clear message to the players is to stay focused at the crease and be patient with the ball.
Historic Test for South Africa – First Home Test Since 2002
The Test match, starting on December 15, 2024, will be a historic one for South Africa as they host a red-ball cricket match at home for the first time in 22 years. This Test also marks the eighth encounter between South Africa and England.
Here’s a quick look at the past records:
- Total Tests Played: 7
- Wins for England: 2
- Draws: 5
- Wins for South Africa: 0
With the home advantage and a balanced squad, South Africa will be aiming for their first win against England in Test cricket.
Full Squad for South Africa Women’s Test vs England
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Laura Wolvaardt (C) | Batter (Captain) |
| Anneke Bosch | All-Rounder |
| Tazmin Brits | Batter |
| Nadine de Klerk | All-Rounder |
| Annerie Dercksen | Batter |
| Mieke de Ridder | Wicketkeeper |
| Lara Goodall | Batter |
| Ayanda Hlubi | Seam Bowler |
| Sinalo Jafta | Wicketkeeper |
| Marizanne Kapp | All-Rounder |
| Masabata Klaas | Fast Bowler |
| Suné Luus | All-Rounder |
| Nonkululeko Mlaba | Spinner |
| Tumi Sekhukhune | Fast Bowler |
| Chloé Tryon | All-Rounder |
What to Expect from the South Africa vs England Test?
- South Africa’s Bowling Firepower
With the inclusion of Tumi Sekhukhune, South Africa’s bowling attack gets a serious boost. Combined with Marizanne Kapp, Masabata Klaas, and Ayanda Hlubi, the Proteas have a strong seam attack capable of troubling England’s batters. - Focus on Patient Batting
According to coach Mandla Mashimbyi, one of the key metrics for success will be how much time South Africa’s batters spend at the crease. Laura Wolvaardt, Lara Goodall, and Tazmin Brits will play crucial roles in South Africa’s top order, especially against England’s experienced bowling unit. - Test Match History
With South Africa having never beaten England in a Test match, the pressure will be on them to deliver. However, playing at home after 22 years may give them the morale boost needed to change that record.
Final Thoughts
South Africa Women are set for an exciting Test match against England, and with players like Tumi Sekhukhune, Lara Goodall, and Ayanda Hlubi, the squad looks stronger than ever. This Test isn’t just about the players on the field; it’s about South Africa reclaiming their status in red-ball cricket at home.
The Test will start on December 15, 2024, and with a squad as balanced as this, South Africa’s chances of pulling off a historic victory are higher than ever. Fans will be eager to see how the team performs on home soil for the first time in 22 years.