CAPE TOWN: Ayanda Hlubi and Eliz-Mari Marx have received their inaugural T20I call-ups as South Africa prepares to host Bangladesh for a three-match series.
Marizanne Kapp, currently showcasing her talent with Sydney Thunder in the WBBL, will sit out the T20Is but is set to return for the subsequent ODIs.
Injuries have sidelined fast bowler Ayabonga Khaka (knee), and allrounders Chloe Tryon (groin) and Nadine de Klerk (side). Meanwhile, Laura Wolvaardt has been appointed as the permanent captain, succeeding Sune Luus. Clinton du Preez, the convenor of selectors, expressed optimism about Wolvaardt’s captaincy and the team’s mix of youth and experience, emphasizing the opportunities for young players to showcase their talents during the upcoming tour.
Ayanda Hlubi, a promising seamer who previously contributed to South Africa’s Under-19 T20 World Cup campaign, and Eliz-Mari Marx, displaying impressive form in domestic T20s and on the emerging tour of Zimbabwe, have been included in the 15-member squad. Du Preez highlighted their impactful domestic performances as a reason for their selection.
Additionally, Annerie Dercksen, a seam-bowling allrounder who has recovered from a finger fracture, makes a return to the squad following strong performances after her injury layoff.
Head coach Hilton Moreeng emphasized the intention to blend young talents into the T20I matches, focusing on nurturing and exposing them to higher-level cricket while maintaining the team’s broader objectives.
The upcoming fixtures include three T20Is scheduled between December 3 and December 8 in Benoni and Kimberley, followed by three ODIs to be played between December 16 and December 23 in East London, Potchefstroom, and Benoni.
The South Africa squad comprises Laura Wolvaardt (capt), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Annerie Dercksen, Mieke de Ridder, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, and Delmi Tucker.
