Laura Wolvaardt to Lead South Africa on Modern Zealand Tour

Laura Wolvaardt will captain the South African women’s cricket team on their upcoming tour of New Zealand, featuring five T20 International (T20I) matches and three One Day International (ODI) matches. The tour is scheduled to last almost three weeks.

Squad Announcement and New Faces

The squad includes 20-year-old Reyneke, an offspin-bowling allrounder who recently made her T20I debut against Pakistan. She was named Player of the Match in her debut, taking 2 for 13 and scoring an unbeaten 29 off 16 balls to secure a South African victory ICC.

Coach’s Perspective on the Tour

Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi emphasized the challenges of touring New Zealand, noting the necessitate for adaptability due to varying conditions and venues. He stated, “Touring New Zealand always presents unique challenges. The conditions require adaptability, especially when playing across multiple venues where the surfaces and weather can differ. We must adjust quickly, apply ourselves and maintain the standards we have set as a team.” He also highlighted the tour as an opportunity to test combinations and evolve their cricket style against quality opposition.

Player Updates and Return to Play

Dané van Niekerk has been recovering from illness and will begin her “return-to-play protocol” ahead of South Africa’s upcoming tours after completing her rehabilitation.

Match Schedule

The five women’s T20Is will be played as double-headers alongside the men’s series, taking place from March 15 to 25 in Mount Maunganui, Hamilton, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. The three ODIs will be held on March 29 (Christchurch), April 1 (Wellington), and April 4 (Wellington).

Selector’s Comments on Squad Composition

Convenor of selectors, Clinton du Preez, expressed satisfaction with the squad’s balance, highlighting the value of Masabata Klaas and Ayabonga Khaka’s experience in the bowling attack, particularly for the ODI format. He also praised Kayla Reyneke’s maiden ODI call-up, stating, “Kayla’s maiden ODI call-up is thoroughly deserved following her performances in the recent T20Is. She has shown composure and skill at international level, and we believe she is a player for the future who can grow into an important role within the squad.”

South Africa Women Squad

• Laura Wolvaardt (capt)
• Tazmin Brits
• Nadine de Klerk
• Annerie Dercksen
• Ayanda Hlubi
• Sinalo Jafta
• Ayabonga Khaka
• Masabata Klaas
• Suné Luus
• Karabo Meso
• Nonkululeko Mlaba
• Kayla Reyneke
• Tumi Sekhukhune
• Chloé Tryon