Cricket South Africa have unveiled a strong 14-player squad for the historic one-off Test Match against Australia scheduled to take place from 15-18 February at the West Australia Cricket Association (WACA) Ground in Perth. This match is a significant part of the ongoing multi-format tour.
Hilton Moreeng Proteas Women head coach commented that it is a great opportunity for the youngsters as they are very excited to challenge themselves and to test their skills in the longer format and in women’s cricket, as it is not familiar territory for them.
“We’ve had an opportunity to prepare for it and playing in an iconic stadium, it’s an opportunity that every youngster wants to grab and test their skills against, so it’s exciting times for women’s cricket and one we’re looking forward to as a team.”
The squad boasts six players earning their maiden Test call-up, in the form of top-order batter Tazmin Brits, all-rounders Eliz-Mari Marx and Delmi Tucker, as well as seamers Masabata Klaas and Ayanda Hlubi, along with wicket-keeper Mieke de Ridder.
Making a much welcome return to the Test squad is Chloe Tryon, who missed out on the test match two years against England Women at the Taunton Cricket Ground. Marizanne Kapp, the seasoned all-rounder who left an indelible mark in the previous Test match with a record breaking innings of 150 off 213 balls also features in the team.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt, Anneke Bosch, Nadine de Klerk, Sinalo Jafta, Suné Luus and Nonkululeko Mlaba round up the strong test team. Ayabonga Khaka has chosen not to participate in red-ball cricket.
Convenor of Selectors, Clinton du Preez expressed eagerness and anticipation for the upcoming Test match, which adds an exciting dimension following the T20I and ODI series.
“We are contemplating strategic adjustments within the batting lineup for the Test match. Additionally, we aim to provide opportunities to players who have been part of the tour, while also assessing prospects for future Test matches. Our focus is on structuring the lineup to achieve the right balance within our squad.
“Test cricket introduces an element of excitement, particularly for those players experiencing it for the first time. I look forward to observing the squad members and their performances within the red-ball arena.”
Test Squad:
Laura Wolvaardt (c)
Anneke Bosch
Tazmin Brits
Nadine de Klerk
Mieke de Ridder (wk)
Ayana Hlubi
Sinalo Jafta (wk)
Marizanne Kapp
Masabata Klaas
Suné Luus
Eliz-Mari Marx
Nonkulukelo Mlaba
Chloé Tryon
Delmi Tucker
Photo Caption: Cricket SA have unveiled a strong 14-player squad for the historic one-off Test Match against Australia, scheduled to take place from 15-18 February at the West Australia Cricket Association Ground in Perth. Photo: