South Africa will be led by Laura Wolvaardt in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, who has been a consistent performer at the top of the order for them over the years.
While South Africa faces a transitional phase, the squad has the potential to compete strongly, provided key players perform at their best in the tournament set to take place in the UAE.
South Africa’s squad for the T20 World Cup features two notable uncapped players: legspinner Seshnie Naidu and fast bowler Ayanda Hlubi. Naidu, aged 18, and Hlubi, 20, both made a mark at the inaugural Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023, and their inclusion signals a fresh direction for South African cricket. Naidu’s legspin adds a unique element to South Africa’s bowling attack, while Hlubi’s raw pace provides an additional seam option. The young duo will be eager to make an impact on the world stage.
Convener of selectors Clinton du Preez emphasized the importance of these new faces in a team going through a transition, as veterans like Shabnim Ismail have retired. The inclusion of Naidu and Hlubi represents South Africa’s future, as the team aims to remain competitive while nurturing fresh talent.
South Africa will be led by Laura Wolvaardt // Picture Courtesy — Women’s CricZone
Captain Laura Wolvaardt will be central to South Africa’s campaign. One of the most reliable batters in the squad, Wolvaardt’s consistency at the top will be crucial for the team’s chances. Alongside Wolvaardt, experienced players such as Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, and Tazmin Brits will be expected to anchor the side. Kapp, a world-class allrounder, brings both batting and bowling expertise, while Khaka remains one of the most dependable seamers in the game.
Despite these strengths, South Africa faces a challenge with their middle order. Sune Luus, once the team’s captain, has struggled for form in 2024, failing to score more than 19 in her six T20I innings this year. The team’s batting depth could be a concern, as they appear to rely heavily on Wolvaardt, Kapp, and Brits to provide stability and runs.
South Africa’s bowling unit is one of their strengths heading into the T20 World Cup. With seamers like Ayabonga Khaka, Tumi Sekhukhune, and Nadine de Klerk in the squad, the team has a variety of pace options to choose from. De Klerk, who is currently recovering from an Achilles injury, is expected to be fit for the tournament, adding another valuable seam-bowling allrounder to the mix.
Nonkululeko Mlaba, once ranked second in the world for T20I bowlers, will lead the spin attack. Together with Naidu, she will play a key role in exploiting any spin-friendly conditions in the UAE. With such a well-rounded bowling line-up, South Africa has the ability to take wickets at crucial moments and restrict opposition totals.
South Africa’s bowling unit is one of their strengths heading into the T20 World Cup // Picture Courtesy — Reveal Inside
South Africa is placed in Group B for the tournament and will face a mix of teams with different strengths. Their campaign will begin against West Indies in Dubai, followed by matches against England, Scotland, and Bangladesh. While South Africa has limited experience playing in the UAE, Wolvaardt and Khaka have previously played in Sharjah, giving them some insight into the conditions.
England will be their toughest challenge in the group, but South Africa should feel confident about their chances against the other teams. If they can secure early wins against West Indies and Scotland, it will set a strong platform for their tournament. Adaptability will be key as the conditions in Dubai and Sharjah can vary, with teams needing to adjust their strategies based on the pitches and weather.
South Africa enters the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a squad in transition, but they have a solid foundation of experience and emerging talent. Under the leadership of Laura Wolvaardt, they have the potential to navigate through the group stage and make a deep run in the tournament. However, much will depend on how well their middle-order batting holds up and if their key players, especially Kapp and Wolvaardt, can produce match-winning performances.
