Cape Town: As finalists in the previous edition, South Africa aims to clinch victory at the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. Laura Wolvaardt will captain the South African squad, marking her debut as a leader at an ICC event. The team is gearing up for the World Cup with a preparatory three-match T20I series against Pakistan from 16 to 20 September.
According to International Cricket Council, Laura Wolvaardt and her team are prepared to leverage their experience and new strategies to improve on their last performance. The squad largely mirrors last year’s, with the addition of four newcomers: Eliz-Mari Marx, Tumi Sekhukhune, Mieke De Ridder, and uncapped Seshnie Naidu. Veteran player Sune Luus, instrumental in their previous run to the finals, will continue to be a pivotal part of the team.
The team will also be complemented by 19-year-old Miané Smit, who joins as a travelling reserve. Clinton du Preez, CSA Proteas Women Convenor of Selectors, emphasized the selection of a balanced squad that suits the UAE conditions, where the tournament will be held from October 3 to 20. He praised Wolvaardt for her leadership qualities and expressed high hopes for Naidu’s unique bowling skills to make a significant impact.
South Africa finds itself in Group B alongside Bangladesh, England, Scotland, and West Indies. Their campaign starts against the Windies on October 4, followed by matches against England, Scotland, and Bangladesh on the subsequent days.
The squad includes seasoned players like Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon, alongside other key players such as Nadine De Klerk and Nonkululeko Mlaba, all expected to play crucial roles in the team’s strategy.
CSA Director of Cricket, Enoch Nkwe, shared his pride in the team’s resilience and skill, highlighting the national support for the players as they aim to bring the championship home.