South Africa Women's squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2024 announced; Laura Wolvaardt named captain

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has named a 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, which is set to take place in the United Arab Emirates in October. Laura Wolvaardt will captain the South African women's national cricket team for the first time in an ICC event.

The Laura Wolvaardt-led side will play a three-match T20I series against the Pakistan women's national cricket team from September 16 to 20 in preparation for the much-awaited World Cup. Also, the same Proteas squad will also face Pakistan in the upcoming T20I series in away conditions.

Laura Wolvaardt To Lead South Africa Women's Team In T20 World Cup 2024

Sune Luus, who led the team to the final in last year's T20 World Cup, will be part of the squad. Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Ayabonga Khaka, and Nadine De Klerk will bring experience to the side. They are supported by talents like Tazmin Brits, Nonkululeko Mlaba, and Tumi Sekhukhune.

Meanwhile, uncapped legspinner Seshnie Naidu has received her first call-up to the national team after standout performances with SA U19 Women and SA Emerging. Young players Ayanda Hlubi and Annerie Dercksen will join the team. 19-year-old all-rounder Miané Smit has been named as a traveling reserve.

South Africa Squad: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Mieke de Ridder, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Suné Luus, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon.

Travelling reserve: Miané Smit

Laura Wolvaardt Has Been Exceptional As A Leader - Convenor of Selectors

CSA Proteas Women Convenor of Selectors Clinton du Preez highlighted the balanced and strategic squad selection for the T20 World Cup. Also, Preez highlighted Seshnie Naidu as a potential game-changer. Du Preez described Laura Wolvaardt as exceptional as a leader.

“While playing in the UAE presents some unknowns, we have conducted thorough research and selected a balanced squad that complements the conditions, with strategic options in mind as we head into the T20 World Cup," Clinton du Preez said.

"Laura (Wolvaardt) has been exceptional as a leader, bringing a holistic approach to the team. She leads with respect and integrity, and we are excited to see her leadership and playing qualities shine at the World Cup."

"Seshnie Naidu has shown significant growth as a bowler within our camps, and we see her as an X-factor for the World Cup. She brings a unique element to our bowling attack, offering something different that could be pivotal."

“We've had strong competition for places, and while some players will unfortunately miss out, these decisions were made based on balance, form, fitness, and strategic considerations for the format. Every selection was carefully considered to ensure the best possible squad for this important tournament."

South Africa is placed in Group B at the World Cup with England, Bangladesh, Scotland, and the West Indies. Before their opening match against the West Indies, the South Africa women's team will play two warm-up games against New Zealand women on September 29 and India women on October 1.

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