Five players from South Africa’s 15-member squad are set to experience the Women’s ODI World Cup for the very first time.
Among them is Karabo Meso, a young wicketkeeper-batter who hasn’t even turned 18 yet. The teenager has been handed a golden opportunity to feature on the biggest stage as she earns a call-up to South Africa’s squad for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup. Notably, former captain Dane van Niekerk, who recently reversed her retirement decision, has been left out.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced the 15-member squad on Wednesday for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Van Niekerk, who retired from international cricket in 2023, announced her comeback on August 25, aiming for a World Cup return. On the same day, she was included in South Africa’s 20-player training camp for the tournament.
However, just three days later, on August 28, head coach Mandla Mashimbyi made it clear that Van Niekerk was “not part of their World Cup plans” and would only be considered once “everything is sorted out.” Her omission from the final squad, therefore, comes as no surprise.
Van Niekerk had earlier missed out on the 2023 T20 World Cup due to failing to meet CSA’s strict fitness standards, which prompted her international retirement at the age of 29 in March that year. Since then, she has continued playing in domestic and franchise leagues but hasn’t featured in international cricket since September 2021.
As for Karabo Meso, the 17-year-old has played just two ODIs, scoring 16 runs, and has 24 runs in five T20Is so far. She also boasts experience from the U-19 Women’s World Cup, making her one of the most promising young talents in the squad.
Alongside Meso, there are four other players in the squad who are also set to make their Women’s ODI World Cup debuts.
Before the tournament, South Africa will face Pakistan in a three-match ODI series in Lahore. Their World Cup campaign begins on October 3, with a high-voltage clash against England.
