Marizanne Kapp Returns for South Africa’s Tour of the West Indies

South Africa have announced their women’s white-ball squad for the upcoming tour of the West Indies, with experienced allrounder Marizanne Kapp making her return. The Proteas will play three ODIs and three T20Is, all at the Three Ws Oval in Barbados, starting June 11.

Kapp, Sekhukhune and Hlubi Strengthen the Squad

Kapp has been out of action for South Africa since December 2024 and missed the recent tri-series in Sri Lanka. She was on a conditioning break and returns as the team prepares for the ODI World Cup later this year in India. Seamers Tumi Sekhukhune and Ayanda Hlubi also make their way back into the squad, boosting the pace attack with seven seam options.

The team struggled in Sri Lanka, winning just one out of four matches. With their eyes on World Cup preparation, the selectors have made clear changes to improve the side’s balance and depth. Coach Mandla Mashimbyi called the West Indies tour “a fantastic opportunity” for the players to bounce back.

Goodall Dropped, Bosch Still Unavailable

Top-order batter Lara Goodall has been dropped from the squad. She was part of the Sri Lanka tour but could not keep her place. Anneke Bosch, who missed the Sri Lanka series due to illness, remains unavailable as she continues her recovery. The squad also sees the exclusion of young legspinner Seshnie Naidu.

Wicketkeeper Karabo Meso, just 17 years old, has retained her place. She will continue to develop under senior player Sinalo Jafta’s guidance. The spin attack is led by Nonkululeko Mlaba and includes experienced options like Sune Luus and Chloe Tryon, along with young Miane Smit, who is likely to make her T20I debut.

Road to the World Cup Begins

With only a few series left before the ODI World Cup, this tour will help South Africa fine-tune their combinations. Their recent ODI record has been poor, with just three wins in the last 13 games. They were semi-finalists in the 2022 ODI World Cup and finished as runners-up in the last two T20 World Cups. Expectations are high, and this tour is key to building momentum.

South Africa will also tour Pakistan later this year for three more ODIs before heading to India for the World Cup in September-October. The focus will be on strong performances, consistency, and building confidence.

South Africa Women’s Squad:

Laura Wolvaardt (capt), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso (wk), Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miané Smit, Chloé Tryon

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