Former South Africa women’s captain Dane van Niekerk is set to return to international cricket after more than four years, having been named in both the ODI and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Ireland from December 5.
Her inclusion strengthens the squad as they begin a new cycle, having reached two consecutive World Cup finals in the past two years.
South Africa head coach Mandla Mashimbyi expressed his delight at having the seasoned campaigner back, saying: “We all know how talented she is, her knowledge of the game, and that she just needs to perform.”
Van Niekerk retired in March 2023 after missing the T20 World Cup squad for failing to meet the fitness criteria. However, she reversed her decision this year, returning via domestic cricket with Western Province. She came close to making the ODI World Cup squad as well but narrowly missed out. The 32-year-old all-rounder will be hoping to break the ‘final curse’ if she is selected for next year’s Women’s T20 World Cup.
Mashimbyi made it clear that the previous fitness rules are no longer a barrier, stating: “For me, you have to look like a cricketer, move like a cricketer, and think like a cricketer. If you are able to do that, I am happy. As long as she can bat, move in the field, and think, we are good — and from what I have seen, she can do that.”
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