South Africa Name Solid Wc Squad, Van Niekerk Misses Out

On expected lines, former South African skipper Dane Van Niekerk has missed the bus for the Women's ODI World Cup in India. Van Niekerk had recently revoked her retirement from international cricket & was also picked for the 20-member training camp, but has eventually missed out on selections.

Laura Wolvaardt will lead the squad that has experienced pros like Chloe Tyron, Marizanne Kapp, Sune Luus, and Ayabonga Khaka. Sinalo Jafta and Karabo Meso are the designated wicketkeepers, with the latter set for her first senior World Cup, having already participated in a couple of Under-19 World Cups.

Young allrounder Miane Smit, who was the travelling reserve for the T20 World Cup last year, has been chosen in the same role yet again. The South Africans will first travel to Pakistan later in the month to prepare for the showpiece event. South Africa opens their World Cup campaign against England on October 3.

Squad: Laura Wolvaardt (C), Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Marizanne Kapp, Tazmin Brits, Sinalo Jafta, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Anneke Bosch, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase

South Africa Head Coach on WC Squad

"From the very first moment I joined this team, we aimed to make South Africa qualify for the World Cup. We look back at the preparation & efforts we have made & finally now we are ready to send a squad for the World Cup that will make South Africa proud". Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi said

"I'm very happy for all the players who have made it to the support staff squad for India. I'm even more excited as I look forward to seeing what things we can achieve together as a group. We go into the World Cup with the belief that we can pull it off in the biggest stage of cricket; we're blessed to have the support of the entire nation."