Van Niekerk Returns to South Africa Squad for World Cup Preparations

Dané van Niekerk, a key figure and former captain of the South African team, has been included in a 20-member squad for a local training camp. This camp marks the beginning of the Proteas’ preparations for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.

Van Niekerk, who had previously declared her retirement from international cricket the prior year, has publicly shared her decision to reverse that announcement via social media.

“I am delighted to share that I have decided to come out of retirement from international cricket,” she stated.

“The time away has made me realize how much I missed representing my country, and I’m completely dedicated to giving my all to earn that chance once again.”

The training camp is scheduled to commence on August 25 in Durban and will continue through September.

Following the camp, South Africa will travel to Pakistan for a three-game ODI series starting on September 16. This will be their last series before the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Significantly absent from the training camp squad are captain Laura Wolvaardt and experienced all-rounders Chloé Tryon and Marizanne Kapp, who are currently participating in The Hundred tournament.

Meanwhile, Luyanda Nzuza, an uncapped all-rounder who played for South Africa in the U19 Women’s World Cup earlier this year, has received her first call-up to the senior team.

Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi conveyed his enthusiasm for the upcoming camp and highlighted its importance in refining preparations for the global competition.

“It’s an exciting period to be involved with this squad as we progress towards the World Cup. The players have dedicated significant effort over the past months to prepare for that first ball against England in India,” Mashimbyi remarked.

“This camp in Durban will be essential in helping us finalize crucial aspects of our preparation, ensuring we address all key areas before we travel as a unified team. Pakistan will also serve as an important assessment of our team’s status before the tournament.”

“Regarding the squad, we’ve worked diligently to ensure the appropriate balance and skillset necessary for a successful World Cup. We’ve also included individuals like Luyanda and Dané to assess their potential contributions to the team in the near future.”

The final squads for both the Pakistan series and the World Cup will be revealed in early September.

Proteas squad for national camp:

Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Luyanda Nzuza, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miané Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, Dané van Niekerk.