The cricket landscape has witnessed an exciting development as Laura Wolvaardt, at just 24 years of age, has been entrusted with the leadership of South Africa Women’s cricket across all formats. This announcement was coupled with the revelation of the 15-player T20I squad set to go into battle against Bangladesh in the upcoming white-ball series scheduled for next month on home soil.
With her ascent to full-time captaincy, Wolvaardt steps into a role she has been groomed for following her impressive interim stint at the helm — evidenced by consecutive series victories against formidable opponents Pakistan and New Zealand, both by narrow 2-1 margins. These achievements add to her standout performances as a player, where she boasts an impressive record — featuring in 86 ODIs and 59 T20Is, accumulating 3421 and 1313 runs in the respective formats. Moreover, her initiation in Test cricket was marked during South Africa’s long-awaited return to the red-ball game on English shores last year.
Yet, Wolvaardt will confront her first challenge as the confirmed skipper amidst noteworthy absences in her squad. Injuries will prevent fast bowler Ayabonga Khaka and all-rounders Chloe Tyron and Nadine de Klerk from contributing their skillsets to the forthcoming T20I series commencing on December 3rd in Benoni. Marizanne Kapp, another veteran allrounder, is set to be rested for the short format encounter, reserving her energy and expertise for the all-important ODI series forming part of the Women’s ODI Championship 2022-25. This squad, with fixtures beginning in East London on December 16, is to be announced soon.
Clinton du Preez, Convenor of Selectors, exudes confidence in Wolvaardt’s leadership and the selected squad. “Having Laura Wolvaardt as the official captain, together with a blend of young and experienced players bodes well for our succession planning,” he remarked. Emphasizing the strategic approach, du Preez highlights the excitement around giving younger talent a chance, alluding to their potential in making impactful performances in the series ahead.
The squad’s configuration and forthcoming competitions are seen as preparatory steps, aiming for a strong showing at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup set to take place next year in Bangladesh. With this context, the selectors’ inclusion of Ayanda Hlubi and Eliz-Mari Marx, both yet to don international caps, underscores a commitment to recognizing and uplifting domestic performance.
Head coach Hilton Moreeng acknowledges the continuity of diligent efforts and strategic planning as crucial, particularly in light of playing against Bangladesh who are riding high after a successful series against Pakistan. The T20Is present an opportunity to integrate young talent into the mix, thereby buttressing the team’s foundation and fostering a competitive environment within the squad.
Moreeng underscores the balance of nurturing young talent while remaining focused on achieving broader objectives throughout the tour, as South Africa Women aim to broaden their horizon with young players stepping up and seasoned campaigners leading from the front.
With Wolvaardt captaining a squad poised to face Bangladesh, South African cricket fans eagerly anticipate the performance of this dynamic team. The T20I Squad includes both experienced players and potential debutants: Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Annerie Dercksen, Mieke de Ridder, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Delmi Tucker, and Laura Wolvaardt as captain. The marked * indicates the players awaiting their maiden cap.
The country, fans, and the cricketing community watch with bated breath as the series approaches, with high hopes for these athletes to make their mark under the fresh captaincy of Laura Wolvaardt, South Africa’s shining beacon in the world of women’s cricket.