Annerie Dercksen, recognized as the ICC’s Emerging Women’s Cricketer of 2024, has been awarded her first central contract with South Africa’s national team. She is included in the 15-player list for the 2025-26 season. However, Lara Goodall and Delmi Tucker, who were contracted last year, have been omitted this time.
Goodall and Tucker were on the periphery of the main squad, while Dercksen has become a regular player in all formats, leading to her contract.
The contracted squad features experienced players like captain Laura Wolvaardt, former captain Sune Luus, all-rounders Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk, senior players Anneke Bosch and Ayabonga Khaka, and spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba.
Marizanne Kapp’s inclusion highlights her ongoing commitment to international cricket after she reconsidered retirement last year. She is reportedly considering the upcoming ODI World Cup as a potential farewell tournament but may also aim for the T20 World Cup in 15 months.
The squad largely remains consistent, indicating stability in South Africa’s player selection. However, it raises questions about the development of the next generation of players. For instance, Under-19 player Karabo Meso, despite performing well in the SA20 Schools competition and having senior-level experience, was not offered a contract.
Enoch Nkwe, South Africa’s director of cricket, expressed satisfaction with the progress of current players and aims to reward their performance.
He stated that maintaining squad consistency acknowledges the team’s achievement in reaching a second consecutive World Cup final and reflects CSA’s dedication to rewarding consistent performance and building on global success. He believes the squad has the right mix of experience and youth for the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India.
South Africa has had a break since December and will tour Sri Lanka in April for a tri-series with India as preparation for the ODI World Cup. They are also scheduled to play a series in the West Indies in June.
South Africa contracted squad: Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon, Laura Wolvaardt
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