Dane van Niekerk returns: South Africa announce squad for Ireland tour

South Africa Women's vs Ireland Women's: The South Africa women's cricket team has announced its squad for the tour of Ireland. The biggest news is former captain Dane van Niekerk's return to international cricket after four years. She impressed the selectors with her impressive domestic performances. This series is considered part of their preparation for the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup and the 2029 ODI World Cup.

Cricket South Africa has included former captain Dane van Niekerk in the squad for next month's white-ball series against Ireland. This is her first national selection since September 2021. Niekerk reversed her retirement in August and performed brilliantly in domestic cricket, scoring four half-centuries in six innings.

Importance of the Series

• The series will be played at six venues from December 5 to 19.
• The selectors aim to expand the team pool and prepare for the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup and 2029 ODI World Cup.
• Convenor of Selectors Clinton du Preez said the series is an opportunity to take a closer look at player options.

New and Returning Faces

• Faye Tunnicliffe (top-order batter) and Seshni Naidu (leg spinner) received a call-up based on their domestic performances.
• Leah Jones has made her international debut.
• Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, and Elise-Mari Marks are returning to the ODI squad.

Senior Player Status

• Several senior players will be rested for the ODI series: Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, and Annerie Derksen.
• Tazmin Brits will return to the ODI squad but will not play in the T20Is due to injury.
• Anneke Bosch is out due to domestic matches.

Announced Teams

South Africa Women's T20I Squad

SA-W T20 Team: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Nondumiso Shangase, Chloe Tryon, Faye Tunnicliffe, Dane van Niekerk.

South Africa Women's ODI Squad

SA-W ODI Team: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Leah Jones, Sune Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miane Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, Dane van Niekerk.

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