Cricket News

South Africa unveil six new faces for historic Women’s Test vs Australia

Feb 9, 2024 10:35 pm

South Africa’s squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Australia, starting February 15 at the WACA in Perth, is brimming with excitement. While experienced campaigners like Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp, and Chloe Tryon provide stability, the inclusion of six uncapped players injects a dose of fresh energy and anticipation.

This historic Test, the first-ever between the two sides in the longest format, marks a significant moment for women’s cricket. South Africa’s selectors have embraced this opportunity by handing maiden Test call-ups to Tazmin Brits, Masabata Klaas, Ayanda Hlubi, Eliz-Mari Marx, Delmi Tucker, and Mieke de Ridder. These rising stars have impressed in domestic cricket and earned their stripes. Opener Brits brings solidity to the top order, while Klaas and Hlubi offer pace and swing with the new ball. All-rounders Marx and Tucker provide valuable options with both bat and ball, and wicketkeeper de Ridder adds depth to the squad.

The core of the team, however, remains experienced. Wolvaardt, now leading across all formats, brings her elegant strokeplay and astute captaincy. The ever-reliable Bosch and de Klerk add solidity to the middle order, while Luus’ experience and leadership will be crucial. Jafta and Mlaba provide pace and accuracy in the bowling attack, and Kapp’s all-round brilliance needs no introduction. Her heroics in the drawn Taunton Test against England in 2022, where she scored 150 and 43*, are still fresh in memories.

“It’s an opportunity that every youngster wants to grab”

Speaking while the announcement was made, South Africa‘s head coach, Hilton Moreeng acknowledged that the game would be a huge test of his players’ skills but added that the opportunity to play in a Test match is one that every youngster looks forward to.

“It’s a great opportunity for us as a team. It’s another one in a while again, so I think especially with the youngsters, they’re very excited to challenge themselves and to test their skills in the longer format and in women’s cricket, it hasn’t been something we’ve been familiar with. We’ve had an opportunity to prepare for it and playing in an iconic stadium, it’s an opportunity that every youngster wants to grab and test their skills against, so it’s an exciting time for women’s cricket and one we’re looking forward to as a team,” Moreeng said.

This blend of youth and experience creates a fascinating dynamic for the Proteas. The young guns will be eager to prove themselves on the biggest stage, while the experienced hands will provide guidance and stability. The WACA’s lively pitch and bouncy conditions promise an enthralling contest, and South Africa will be determined to make a mark in this historic encounter.