Van Niekerk Not in World Cup Plans, Says Coach Mashimbyi

Mandla Mashimbyi, the head coach of the South Africa women’s cricket team, announced on Thursday that Dane van Niekerk will not be included in their strategies for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.

Van Niekerk, a seasoned all-rounder, had recently reversed her international retirement on Monday. She initially retired in 2023 after failing to meet the fitness standards set by Cricket South Africa (CSA), which prevented her from participating in the home ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

The 32-year-old was subsequently among those invited to a week-long training camp in preparation for the major tournament, which is scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2.

Coach Mashimbyi confirmed that while Dane van Niekerk will participate in the training camp alongside other players vying for a spot in South Africa’s World Cup squad, she will not be selected for the final 15.

The head coach clarified that van Niekerk’s invitation to the training camp was intended to involve her as part of a wider player pool and to familiarize her with the team’s dynamics.

Mashimbyi stated, “She’s included to broaden our base of players and expose her to our environment, but she is definitely not part of our World Cup plans. She will not be going.”

“The aim was to bring her in, allow her to experience the environment, and understand our expectations.”

“Our hope is that she can build on this experience and gain a clear understanding of her future direction, so that when she is called upon again, she can make an immediate impact.”

Following the training camp, the Proteas are scheduled to tour Pakistan for a three-match ODI series from September 16 to 22.

After the Pakistan tour, the team will travel to India for the World Cup, where they will commence their campaign against England on October 3.

Proteas squad members 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.