South Africa’s women’s cricket team is set for a significant milestone this week as they embark on their first-ever senior T20 International series against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt has described the five-match series as “very special,” noting that the Proteas have never previously faced another African side at senior international level during her career. “It’s pretty cool that we get to play some cricket against our neighbours. So I’m very excited to head over there,” she said.
All matches will take place at Queen’s Sports Club and start at 13:30. The fixtures are:
- Friday, 11 September – 1st T20I
- Sunday, 13 September – 2nd T20I
- Tuesday, 15 September – 3rd T20I
- Thursday, 17 September – 4th T20I
- Saturday, 19 September – 5th T20I
The squad has a fresh look. Only Annerie Dercksen, Karabo Meso and Kayla Reyneke join Wolvaardt from the group that competed at the recent T20 World Cup in England. Several experienced players return, including Anneke Bosch, Miané Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, Ayanda Hlubi, Eliz-Mari Marx and Nondumiso Shangase. Four uncapped players — Caitlin Wyngaard, Luyanda Nzuza, Nthabiseng Nini and Jae-Leigh Filander — have been included to gain international experience. Filander replaced the injured Sinalo Jafta.
image:Cricinfo
Wolvaardt is particularly enthusiastic about the younger members of the group. “I feel like the youngsters bring so much energy to the group. We’ve had a really good couple of days here training,” she said. “It’s going to be awesome to see those youngsters just express themselves and play free cricket against a new opposition. Lots of talent here in the net. I’m keen to see how they all go in the games.”
Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi has framed the tour as a clear development opportunity. “The purpose is quite simple. It’s an opportunity for players to test their skills. An opportunity to give opportunities to the young players. And also for us to see where we are going forward in terms of the future of South African cricket,” he explained.
The series offers Zimbabwe a valuable home test against a strong African rival, while giving South Africa the chance to assess depth and blood emerging talent. With the team already in Zimbabwe after a pre-tour camp, attention now turns to the opening match on Friday.
