Ex-South Africa captain revokes retirement from international cricket ahead of World Cup

Former South African captain Dane van Niekerk has reversed her retirement from international cricket and made herself available for national selection. The veteran all-rounder announced the decision on social media on Monday, August 25, and confirmed her full return to the Proteas Women’s squad.

Van Niekerk last played for South Africa in September 2021. She missed the 2022 ODI World Cup due to an ankle fracture, which delayed her return as captain. Van Niekerk also struggled to meet a fitness test, including a two-km run. She announced her retirement from international cricket in March 2023.

Decided to Revoke My Retirement from International Cricket - Dane van Niekerk

Dane van Niekerk made her comeback to domestic cricket with Western Province in the 2024-25 season. Following her return, she was named in the 20-player extended squad for South Africa’s pre-World Cup training camp, which is scheduled to take place from August 25 to September 1 in Durban.

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After stepping away from international cricket for over two years, the 32-year-old announced her decision to return. The all-rounder said that she missed representing South Africa and confirmed her full commitment to giving her best for the national team once again.

“I'm thrilled to announce that I have decided to revoke my retirement from international cricket. The time away has reminded me just how much I have missed representing my country and I am fully committed to giving everything to once again have that opportunity,” Van Niekerk wrote in a statement on Instagram.

I Sincerely Apologise to Cricket South Africa - Dane van Niekerk

Van Niekerk apologized to Cricket South Africa over her previous retirement. The all-rounder said she would return with renewed focus and energy, thanking supporters for their continued encouragement.

“I sincerely apologise to Cricket South Africa and the cricket family for how I handled my retirement, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to hopefully one day express my skills again on the international stage. I know the standards of the team and the women's game continue to rise, and I am ready to work hard to meet them."

“I return with renewed energy, focus, and a deep sense of gratitude for this chance. Thank you to everyone who continues to support me on this journey.”

South Africa to Announce ODI Squad for Lahore Series After Training Camp

Dane van Niekerk retired in 2023 at the age of 29 after failing to make the squad for a home T20 World Cup due to fitness requirements. Sune Luus took over the captaincy for that tournament.

Van Niekerk played 194 matches for South Africa, including 107 ODIs, 86 T20Is, and one Test. She scored 4,074 runs and took 204 wickets. The 32-year-old led the side in 50 ODIs and 30 T20Is, winning 29 and 15 matches, respectively.

Following the Durban training camp, South Africa will announce their squad for a three-match ODI series in Lahore, which serves as the final preparation for the ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

South Africa Women's training squad: Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Luyanda Nzuza, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miane Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, Dane van Niekerk

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