Laura Wolvaardt, captain of the Proteas Women, is confident about her side’s prospects as they begin their ODI Tri-Series challenge against India at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
The 50-over match will start at 10h00 local time (06h30 SAST), with live coverage available on Sri Lanka Cricket’s YouTube channel.
Proteas Women ready to take on India
Speaking ahead of their first match, Wolvaardt praised the team’s preparation, highlighting recent camps focused on match scenarios to compensate for limited game time.
“We’ve had some good prep with scenario-type camps. Hopefully, we’re able to start tomorrow on the right foot,” said Wolvaardt.
She also noted the challenges of adapting to Colombo’s hot and humid conditions, contrasting with the cooler climate back home. “It’s been good to acclimatize, and we’re ready to go,” she added.
Recent history favors India, but Proteas optimistic
While India boasts an 18-13 record over South Africa in previous ODI encounters, the Proteas Women approach the series with fresh momentum under new head coach Mandla Mashimbyi.
“It’s our first full tour with Coach Mandla. He’s already made a big impact, doing things differently, and bringing a fresh approach,” Wolvaardt noted.
Focus on subcontinent conditions and player development
With the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 looming in India, Wolvaardt emphasized the importance of gaining experience in subcontinent conditions. “Batting time in the middle here is invaluable,” she said.
She also expressed excitement about the squad’s bowling variety, particularly highlighting spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba as a key player likely to thrive in spin-friendly conditions.
“It’s probably the most spinners I’ve had in a squad since becoming captain. Mlaba could be a real handful in these conditions,” Wolvaardt remarked.
Proteas Women Squad – ODI Tri-Series
- Laura Wolvaardt (Captain) (Fidelity Titans)
- Tazmin Brits (DP World Lions)
- Nadine de Klerk (World Sports Betting Western Province)
- Annerie Dercksen (Six Gun Grill Garden Route Badgers)
- Lara Goodall (World Sports Betting Western Province)
- Sinalo Jafta (DP World Lions)
- Ayabonga Khaka (DP World Lions)
- Masabata Klaas (Fidelity Titans)
- Suné Luus (Fidelity Titans)
- Karabo Meso (DP World Lions) *
- Nonkululeko Mlaba (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
- Seshnie Naidu (Hollywoodbets Dolphins) *
- Nondumiso Shangase (Hollywoodbets Dolphins)
- Miané Smit (Knights) *
- Chloé Tryon (DP World Lions)
*Uncapped players
Fixtures – ODI Tri-Series 2025
- Tuesday, 29 April @ 06h30 SAST – 2nd ODI: India vs South Africa
- Friday, 02 May @ 06h30 SAST – 3rd ODI: Sri Lanka vs South Africa
- Sunday, 04 May @ 06h30 SAST – 4th ODI: Sri Lanka vs India
- Wednesday, 07 May @ 06h30 SAST – 5th ODI: South Africa vs India
- Friday, 09 May @ 06h30 SAST – 6th ODI: Sri Lanka vs South Africa
- Sunday, 11 May @ 06h30 SAST – Final: 1st Place vs 2nd Place
Follow the Proteas Women as they embark on an exciting Tri-Series journey, setting the stage for the 2025 World Cup!
