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Sunday, February 09, 2025

Proteas Women on the Brink of World Cup Glory

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The stage is set for the Proteas Women’s cricket team as they head into Sunday’s T20 World Cup final against New Zealand’s White Ferns in Dubai. South Africa’s journey to this point has been a blend of grit, determination, and a new mindset that has transformed them into serious contenders. The Proteas have already made history, but there’s a growing belief that they can go one step further and claim their maiden World Cup title.

What stands out about this Proteas side is their firepower at the top of the order. Laura Wolvaardt, the second-leading run-scorer of the tournament, has been magnificent, amassing 190 runs at a steady average of 47.50. She has set the foundation for her team with composed, yet aggressive batting. Alongside her is Tazmin Brits, whose 170 runs have given South Africa an additional weapon up front. But it’s Anneke Bosch who brings the fireworks—her explosive half-century in the semi-finals came at a pace that rattled the opposition and proved that the Proteas’ batting is both versatile and dangerous.

While the batting unit has caught the eye, the Proteas' bowling attack has been just as effective. On the slow, low pitches of Dubai, the bowlers have adjusted brilliantly. Nonkululeko Mlaba has emerged as a key figure, taking 10 wickets at a miserly average of 10.50. Her ability to vary her pace and keep batters guessing has been instrumental in South Africa’s success. Meanwhile, the return of Marizanne Kapp from injury has bolstered the team. Her precision, economy rate of 4.28 runs per over, and cool head under pressure have allowed the Proteas to stifle opposition batters.

Beyond the technical aspects, there is something more intangible but equally important that has transformed this Proteas side: their mindset. The inclusion of Baakier Abrahams as batting coach and former Proteas spinner Paul Adams as spin-bowling consultant has brought a fresh approach. Bosch, for one, has credited Abrahams with revolutionizing her game, while Adams’ influence has gone beyond just technique. His calming presence and emphasis on meditation and visualization have instilled a sense of positivity and fearlessness in the squad.

In the past, South African teams have often faltered at the final hurdle, opting for the safe route when boldness was required. This team, however, has shown that they are willing to take risks and back themselves in pressure situations. Their semi-final performance was a perfect example—they played with intent, aggression, and, most importantly, a belief that they could win.

The Proteas women also embody the spirit of South Africa’s “Rainbow Nation.” This is a team built on diversity, bringing together players from different backgrounds, each with their own story of struggle and triumph. Many of these athletes have had to overcome significant challenges just to make it to the international stage. That shared resilience is what makes this team so special. They aren’t just playing for personal glory; they are playing for their communities, for their country, and for a brighter future.

There’s also the weight of history on their shoulders, but in a good way. South African cricket has come agonizingly close to World Cup glory on more than one occasion, with both the men’s and women’s teams reaching T20 World Cup finals in recent years. But this feels different. The team is peaking at the right time, and their momentum is undeniable. Having experienced heartbreak in the past, they seem more determined than ever to break the curse and finally bring the trophy home.

As they prepare to face the White Ferns, who defeated them in the warm-up match, the Proteas will need to stay focused. But with the form they’ve shown and the newfound confidence coursing through the squad, they go into the final as the team to beat. For South Africa, it’s more than just a cricket match—it’s a chance to inspire a nation and prove that perseverance, diversity, and belief can lead to greatness.

The Proteas Women are ready to make history.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]

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