In a dominant display, India's Sanju Samson unleashed a blistering century to secure a 61-run victory over South Africa in the opening T20 match of a four-game series at Durban's Kingsmead.
Winning the toss, South Africa elected to field, but their decision backfired as India posted a formidable total of 8-202 in their 20 overs. Samson, opening the innings, was the driving force behind India’s imposing score. His 107 off just 50 balls—blasting 10 sixes and seven fours—had fans at Kingsmead on their feet. With a strike rate of 214, Samson’s fearless innings accounted for more than half of India’s total, pushing the Proteas bowlers to their limits.
“The amount of hard work he’s put in over the years, sticking to the basics and doing the tough stuff, he’s finally reaping the rewards,” India captain Suryakumar Yadav said, praising Samson’s team-first mindset. “Even in the 90s, he was going for boundaries—his selflessness and power are what set him apart.”
Despite reaching 2-167 in the 15th over and looking set to surpass 220, India’s scoring momentum slowed. The Proteas bowlers, led by Marco Jansen (1-24) and Gerald Coetzee (3-37), managed to claw back, conceding only 35 runs in the final five overs while capturing six wickets. Tilak Varma’s brisk 33 was the only other notable contribution in India’s innings.
Chasing 203 was always going to be a tall order for South Africa, and India's legbreak duo, Varun Chakravarthy (3-25) and Ravi Bishnoi (3-28), ensured the Proteas never found their footing. Chakravarthy’s key dismissals of Heinrich Klaasen (25) and David Miller (18) dashed any hopes of a comeback as South Africa was bundled out for 141 in 17.5 overs.
Reflecting on the loss, South Africa captain Aiden Markram acknowledged Samson’s masterclass. “Sanju played incredibly well and put our bowlers under real pressure. When a player is striking like that, it’s incredibly tough to stop him. Hats off to him.”
The teams will meet again for the second match in Gqeberha on Sunday, where South Africa will look to even the series and stifle India's early momentum.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Springbok stalwart Kwagga Smith is set to earn his 50th Test cap this Sunday as the Springboks face off against Scotland at Murrayfield. This opening match of the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour promises excitement, especially with seasoned players like Franco Mostert and RG Snyman making their return after injury layoffs.
Rassie Erasmus, the Springbok national coach, has unveiled a powerful lineup, choosing Eben Etzebeth as captain while regular skipper Siya Kolisi starts from the bench. Smith, who made his Springbok debut against Wales in 2018, will take the field at No. 8, marking a milestone in a career that already boasts two Rugby World Cup titles.
The return of Mostert and Snyman is a welcome boost to the Springbok pack. Mostert is back following a broken leg suffered against Ireland, while Snyman has shaken off a foot injury sustained prior to the Wallabies Test. Their comeback signals South Africa’s intent to field a formidable forward lineup, with a seven-one forward-back split on the bench for this physical battle.
Erasmus has made 11 changes to the starting team that defeated Argentina in the final Castle Lager Rugby Championship game, maintaining a lineup brimming with experience. Out of the 23 players, 21 have Rugby World Cup winner's medals, with a balanced mix of veteran strength and rising talent.
A familiar backline will return, highlighted by veteran fullback Willie le Roux, who approaches his own milestone with his 98th Test match. Joining him are Canan Moodie and Makazole Mapimpi on the wings, as well as the skilled midfield pair Andre Esterhuizen and Lukhanyo Am. Jaden Hendrikse will start at scrumhalf, partnered with the experienced Handre Pollard, forming an exciting halfback duo.
The Springbok pack will be a mix of veterans and warriors, including Elrigh Louw and Marco van Staden joining Smith in the loose trio, while Mostert lines up alongside Etzebeth, extending his record as South Africa's most-capped player with 129 Tests.
On the bench, Erasmus has opted for experience, including forwards Malcolm Marx, Vincent Koch, and Kolisi, ensuring depth and physicality. Grant Williams is the only backline reserve, providing versatility at scrumhalf and wing.
Erasmus praised Smith’s milestone, stating, “Kwagga is a remarkable player, bringing talent and dedication to every game. Reaching 50 caps is a significant achievement, and we’re incredibly proud of his contributions to the team.”
As Scotland prepares for a fierce battle on home turf, Erasmus anticipates a hard-fought contest. “Scotland is ranked seventh globally, and they’re known for their resilience. We expect an 80-minute battle and a passionate home crowd that will lift their side. Our team is ready for the challenge.”
The Springboks will look to extend their impressive record against Scotland, having won eight straight matches against them since 2010. The game kicks off at 18:10 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
Springbok Starting XV: 15 – Willie le Roux
14 – Canan Moodie
13 – Lukhanyo Am
12 – Andre Esterhuizen
11 – Makazole Mapimpi
10 – Handre Pollard
9 – Jaden Hendrikse
8 – Kwagga Smith
7 – Elrigh Louw
6 – Marco van Staden
5 – Franco Mostert
4 – Eben Etzebeth (captain)
3 – Thomas du Toit
2 – Bongi Mbonambi
1 – Ox Nche
Replacements: 16 – Malcolm Marx
17 – Gerhard Steenekamp
18 – Vincent Koch
19 – RG Snyman
20 – Siya Kolisi
21 – Pieter-Steph du Toit
22 – Jasper Wiese
23 – Grant Williams
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Cricket fans, prepare for a thrilling season as Betway SA20 tickets are now officially on sale. Following an overwhelming demand during the pre-sale period, with the popular "Plenty for R20" promotion selling out at four of six venues within hours, tickets for Season 3 are expected to go fast.
Fans across South Africa can look forward to a month-long celebration of cricket and entertainment, starting on 9 January when the Sunrisers Eastern Cape, the back-to-back champions, open the season in Gqeberha against MI Cape Town’s star-studded lineup, featuring World Cup winner Ben Stokes, Trent Boult, and Rashid Khan.
The excitement continues with last season’s runners-up, Durban’s Super Giants, set to play their first home match at Kingsmead on 10 January against Pretoria Capitals. Big names like Kane Williamson, Shamar Joseph, and Marcus Stoinis are set to add even more star power to the roster. The opening weekend's highlight, however, will be the much-anticipated clash between Joburg Super Kings and MI Cape Town at the Wanderers on 11 January, a match that reignites the legendary IPL rivalry between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.
In addition to high-octane matches, Season 3 promises an enhanced fan experience, with live music, family-friendly activities, giveaways, and stadium favorites like bucket hats and fan cams. SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith shared his enthusiasm: "We’re gearing up for another unforgettable season of T20 cricket, with fans eagerly awaiting nights of intense action and entertainment.”
Players are equally excited to play in front of South Africa’s passionate cricket fans. Heinrich Klaasen, Durban’s Super Giants star, fondly recalls last season’s packed stadiums: “Seeing Kingsmead full on a Wednesday was inspiring – the atmosphere was electric.” MI Cape Town's Ryan Rickelton echoed this sentiment, noting that last year’s record-breaking 200-run partnership with Rassie van der Dussen at the Wanderers was “one of the best feelings on the field.” Pretoria Capitals captain Wayne Parnell added, “SA20 is fierce, it’s full of energy, and it brings fans and families together to celebrate incredible cricket.”
This season culminates with the Final at the Wanderers on 8 February 2025. Tickets for the Playoffs and Final will be available from 6 December. For the full fixture list, ticket details, and everything you need to know, visit SA20.co.za.
With anticipation high, Betway SA20 Season 3 is set to be another blockbuster, showcasing the best local and international cricket talent on South African soil. Fans are encouraged to book their seats early to be part of this premier T20 spectacle.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
JOHANNESBURG — Cricket South Africa (CSA) has unveiled the much-anticipated Women’s Future Tours Programme (FTP) for the 2025-2029 cycle, a significant schedule promising a dynamic era for women’s cricket. This comprehensive programme provides enhanced competitive opportunities for the Proteas Women while fostering the sport’s growth both domestically and internationally.
The Proteas Women are set to face formidable opponents on home soil, with a lineup that includes India, Australia, Pakistan, and the West Indies. These matches will be complemented by challenging overseas tours to England, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe, offering the team exposure to diverse playing conditions and competitive settings.
A highlight of the new cycle is the fourth edition of the ICC Women’s Championship, the qualification pathway to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2029. This expanded format, now featuring 11 teams with Zimbabwe making its debut, aims to broaden the competitive landscape of women’s cricket, marking a new phase in the global growth of the game.
With over 400 matches scheduled in the new FTP cycle, fans can anticipate a packed calendar of major ICC events, including the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, the inaugural 2027 Women’s Champions Trophy, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup.
The FTP also includes multi-format series, comprising Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals, against some of the world’s leading teams, such as Australia, England, India, and the West Indies. These fixtures underline CSA’s commitment to a diverse cricket calendar that supports well-rounded player development and sustained engagement for fans.
Enoch Nkwe, CSA’s Director of National Teams and High Performance, expressed enthusiasm about the programme’s impact:
“The new Women’s Future Tours Programme marks a significant milestone for women’s cricket. The opportunity for the Proteas Women to compete regularly against top nations is invaluable; it will sharpen their skills and elevate the standard of cricket within South Africa.”
Nkwe also extended congratulations to Zimbabwe on joining the ICC Women’s Championship. “Their inclusion enriches our competitive landscape and showcases the growth of women’s cricket across the continent,” he added.
This FTP cycle marks a new chapter for the Proteas Women, signaling CSA’s dedication to advancing women’s cricket at both the national and international levels.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Durban – In a highly anticipated rematch following their thrilling encounter in the T20 World Cup Final, South Africa and India will face off in the first Wonder Cement T20 International at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium on Friday, November 8, starting at 17:00.
As excitement builds for this first match of the series, the stadium management will release the third phase of ticket sales on Monday, October 28, providing fans eager to attend with a final opportunity to secure one of the remaining seats.
The KwaZulu-Natal community has demonstrated a strong enthusiasm for T20 cricket, particularly with a high-profile series against India on the horizon. Currently, fewer than 500 tickets are available for both the stands and the grass embankment, though the exclusive West Deck remains open for sales.
Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium has consistently showcased its appeal for international cricket, having hosted a sold-out match against India last year, as well as a three-match T20 series against Australia. This track record emphasizes the strong demand for top-tier cricket in the region.
Heinrich Strydom, CEO of KZN Cricket, expressed his enthusiasm for the public's interest in international matches at Kingsmead. “We’re thrilled to see such a high demand for tickets to watch the world champions take on the world cup finalists in their first meeting since that final in the Caribbean,” Strydom stated. “T20 cricket is incredibly popular, and it’s clear that the people of Durban have a strong appetite for international cricket.”
As the summer season approaches, Strydom is optimistic about the upcoming cricket festivities. “It’s going to be another exciting summer of cricket for us here at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, and we hope to see the Durban faithful enjoying some thrilling matches.”
Fans are encouraged to follow the Hollywoodbets Dolphins’ social media channels for updates on the launch of the third phase of ticket sales. With anticipation growing, this clash promises to deliver an unforgettable cricketing experience.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The DP World Lions, successfully defended their title in the 2024/25 T20 Challenge with an emphatic victory over the Momentum Multiply Titans at the DP World Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.
The Lions clinched the match by eight wickets, showcasing their dominance in domestic cricket under the guidance of head coach Russell Domingo. This triumph marks their third consecutive title, following victories in the CSA 4-Day Series and the previous T20 Challenge, highlighting their exceptional form this season.
After winning the toss, the Titans opted to bat first but faced immediate pressure from the Lions' bowling attack. Lutho Sipamla delivered a remarkable performance, taking four wickets for just 12 runs in four overs, which significantly derailed the Titans' innings. Sipamla's spell included the vital wickets of two of the Titans’ most dangerous batsmen, Heinrich Klaasen and Donovan Ferreira. His outstanding bowling proved decisive, as he consistently targeted the top of off-stump, leading to early breakthroughs that left the Titans struggling at 34 for three within the first six overs.
The Titans could not recover from Sipamla’s onslaught, with Sibonelo Makhanya (4) attempting to hit Sipamla off his length, only to be caught at midwicket. Rivaldo Moonsamy was caught behind in Sipamla's next over, and a subsequent delivery saw Ferreira dismissed for a duck, as Sipamla's delivery snuck back into the batsman. Klaasen, who had just hit a six, fell shortly after, edging a well-executed delivery behind to wicketkeeper Connor Esterhuizen. The Titans were eventually bowled out for a mere 119 runs, with Sipamla's figures setting a record for the best in a CSA T20 Challenge final.
Lutho Sipamla expressed his gratitude post-match, saying, “It’s very special and I’m very grateful to God after a tough time with injuries last year. I just try to focus on my processes and do my best, whether in practice or in the game.”
In response, the Lions faced early adversity, slipping to 26 for two after five overs. However, Rassie van der Dussen and Connor Esterhuizen steadied the ship with a commanding partnership. Van der Dussen exhibited class and composure, scoring an unbeaten 44 runs off 31 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. Esterhuizen, who has excelled in the middle order, finished with 48 not out off 36 balls, striking six fours and a massive six that secured the win.
The pair combined for an unbroken partnership of 98 runs for the third wicket, guiding the Lions to victory in just 15.1 overs. Esterhuizen sealed the match with a powerful pull shot off fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, sending the ball soaring out of the ground and into the stands.
CSA Chief Executive Officer, Pholetsi Moseki, commended the Lions for their outstanding performance, stating, “The DP World Lions have demonstrated excellence in the most exciting format of the game. It has been inspiring to see South Africans rally behind our domestic competitions.”
The Lions’ impressive victory not only underscores their skill and teamwork but also reinforces the growing popularity of cricket in South Africa. With thrilling matches and strong community engagement, the future of domestic cricket looks exceptionally bright.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
South Africa secured a commanding seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test, claiming their first win in Asia since 2014 and taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The Proteas displayed resilience and skill on a subcontinental pitch that tested their mettle throughout the match.
Day 4 began with South Africa's bowlers in complete control. Bangladesh, resuming at 283/7, added only 24 more runs before being bowled out for 307. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who had been the standout for Bangladesh with an unbeaten 87 at the end of Day 3, fell agonizingly short of his century, adding just 10 more runs to his total. Kagiso Rabada and Wiaan Mulder quickly wrapped up the Bangladesh innings, taking three wickets between them to set South Africa a modest target of 106 runs to win.
Despite the small chase, South Africa didn't have it all their way. In their eagerness to finish the match quickly, the Proteas lost three wickets, but Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickleton steadied the innings and guided South Africa to a comfortable win. This victory ended the Proteas’ nearly decade-long drought of Test wins in Asia, making it a significant achievement for the team.
The foundation of this triumph was laid in the first innings when Bangladesh, after winning the toss and opting to bat, struggled against the South African attack. On a seamer-friendly pitch, Rabada, Mulder, and Keshav Maharaj each picked up three wickets, dismantling the hosts for a meager 106 runs. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto's decision to bat first quickly backfired as the Proteas’ bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly.
South Africa faced their own struggles in response, finding themselves at 108/6 at one point. However, Kyle Verreynne and Wiaan Mulder came to the rescue with a vital partnership that swung the momentum in the Proteas' favor. Verreynne, with a gritty century, and Mulder, who scored his first half-century, helped South Africa build a significant 202-run lead. Verreynne's century was instrumental and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Rabada continued to shine with the ball, putting Bangladesh on the back foot with his disciplined and aggressive bowling. His effort, combined with Mulder's all-round performance, ensured that the Proteas remained in control throughout the Test.
This comprehensive win not only puts South Africa in a strong position in the series but also boosts their confidence as they return to winning ways in Asian conditions after nearly a decade.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 took a major leap forward with an electrifying live draw on The One Show, one of the BBC’s top-rated programs, broadcast straight from the iconic Broadcasting House in London. With a dynamic trio of hosts—BBC Sport’s Gabby Logan, England’s 2014 Rugby World Cup champion Maggie Alphonsi, and TV personality Roman Kemp—the stage was perfectly set for the drama and excitement of the draw, overseen with precision by PwC.
Now, with the teams locked into their pools, the countdown to rugby’s grandest showcase is officially underway. Fans across the globe are already plotting their journeys, as the tournament schedule is set to be unveiled on Tuesday, 22 October via the official website. This World Cup promises to be more than just a sporting event—it’s shaping up to be a celebration of rugby, unity, and the growing power of the women’s game.
Before the draw began, the 16 competing nations were slotted into four seeding bands based on their positions in the World Rugby Women’s Rankings (as of 14 October). The tournament’s top four sides—England, Canada, New Zealand, and France—were pre-positioned at the head of their respective pools, setting up a thrilling mix of matchups.
The host nation, England, currently the world’s top-ranked team, found themselves drawn in Pool A alongside the formidable Australia, the USA, and Samoa. It’s a powerful pool, but England’s consistency and home advantage could be the decisive edge.
In Pool B, world number two Canada faces a Celtic showdown with Scotland and Wales, as well as an intriguing clash with the spirited Fijians. Expect fireworks in this group, as Canada aims to break new ground after years of consistent performances.
Defending champions New Zealand, sitting in Pool C, will face a fascinating array of opponents in Ireland, Japan, and Spain. With their sights set on retaining the title, the Black Ferns will be out to dominate, but the ever-improving Irish and unpredictable Japanese could pose a serious threat.
Pool D throws up a tantalizing set of fixtures, with Rugby World Cup 2021 bronze medalists France locking horns with Italy, South Africa, and Brazil. The French team’s flair and experience make them favorites to top the pool, but they’ll need to be wary of South Africa’s growing presence on the world stage.
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Pools:
Pool A: England, Australia, USA, Samoa
Pool B: Canada, Scotland, Wales, Fiji
Pool C: New Zealand, Ireland, Japan, Spain
Pool D: France, Italy, South Africa, Brazil
Teams will battle through their pool-stage fixtures over three weekends, with the top two sides from each group progressing to the quarter-finals, leading to what promises to be an epic knockout phase.
This World Cup is set to be the most accessible in history, with 95% of the population of England living within a two-hour journey of one of the eight match venues. Even more remarkable is the affordability: with 60% of tickets priced below £25, the tournament will be a moment for all rugby lovers to unite in celebration. Fans have already responded in record numbers, with over 60,000 tickets snapped up during the initial sale, including those for England’s opener in Sunderland and the final matches at Twickenham.
With England also playing in Northampton and Brighton & Hove, anticipation is growing, and tickets for all games will be available starting from 11:00 GMT on Tuesday, 5 November. Ballots will determine ticket allocations in the case of oversubscription, but excitement levels suggest that the tournament may well be played to packed stadiums across the country.
Speaking about the momentum leading up to the tournament, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director Sarah Massey said: “With the buzz among fans and teams building every day, today’s draw is another exciting step towards what will be a spectacular event. The match schedule will soon be revealed, and that will allow everyone to start planning their Rugby World Cup adventure in earnest.”
This World Cup is more than just a competition; it’s a landmark moment for the sport. A chance to witness history, as the world’s best women rugby players battle for glory on rugby’s biggest stage. Prepare for an event that promises to be thrilling, inspiring, and unforgettable.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Few weekends in rugby history stand out like the quarterfinals of October 14th and 15th, 2023. These matches were more than just fixtures; they became defining moments in the sport’s history, captivating millions. New Zealand vs. Ireland and South Africa vs. France, two unforgettable clashes, set the bar for rugby greatness in a way that will endure for generations.
All Blacks vs. Ireland: A Meeting of Titans
The Saturday night saw Stade de France overflow with Irish fans, their green jerseys and hopes filling every corner. Ireland, ranked number one in the world, brimming with confidence, believed this was their moment. On the other side stood the All Blacks, bruised from their tournament-opening loss and eager to reclaim their dominance. Adding to the intensity was New Zealand’s hunger for revenge after their series loss to Ireland the year before. It was a battle of a team rising to the top against another seeking redemption.
What transpired wasn’t just a game—it was a masterclass in grit, technique, and sheer will. New Zealand, fighting for their legacy, showcased why they are rugby royalty. Ireland, valiant and relentless, left everything on the field. Each tackle and pass felt like a momentous occasion. The crowd will never forget Aaron Smith’s desperate shouts to Ardie Savea to push for one last tackle or Sam Cane’s heroic efforts to turn the ball over.
In the end, the All Blacks held on for a thrilling 28-24 victory, resisting Ireland’s relentless onslaught. The stadium stood in stunned silence as the final whistle blew, signaling the end of Johnny Sexton’s illustrious career. The sound of Zombie by The Cranberries echoed through the stadium as 80,000 Irish fans, tears in their eyes, watched their dreams slip away.
Springboks vs. France: The Ultimate Showdown
The next evening in Paris brought another colossal encounter. The French team, tournament hosts, entered their quarterfinal against South Africa with the weight of a nation’s hopes on their shoulders. Fresh from their opening game victory over the All Blacks, the atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with the French fans believing this was their World Cup. Their flair, talent, and style had won the admiration of rugby fans around the world, but in front of them stood the reigning champions—the Springboks—determined to defend their title.
From the first whistle, it was clear this was no ordinary match. France’s attacks were relentless, their precision and speed dazzling the crowd. But South Africa, fueled by deep-rooted determination, met every challenge head-on. Eben Etzebeth towered over the field, disrupting the play of Antoine Dupont, France’s star player. This wasn’t just rugby—it felt like war.
France’s artistry on the field was captivating, but South Africa, with their gladiator-like mentality forged through years of tough rugby experiences, knew how to win in these small moments. Cheslin Kolbe’s breathtaking charge-down of Thomas Ramos’ conversion, Duane Vermeulen’s brute strength, and Handré Pollard’s composure in the dying moments were all part of a masterful performance.
With only one point separating the teams, France launched a final, desperate attack. The crowd roared, willing their team to find a way through the Springboks’ impenetrable defense. But South Africa’s steadfast and resolute defense, held firm. When the final knock-on came, the heartbreak was felt around the nation, as the French players collapsed to the turf, their World Cup dreams shattered.
We will always remember this match for its intensity, drama, brilliant tries and narrow margins. Could Etzebeth's possible knock-on have resulted in a penalty try for France? It was adjudged to have gone back from the hand. Was Kolbe’s charge down a fraction too early? These questions will persist, but Springbok fans won't care. Their team had triumphed and had a date with destiny.
A Historic Weekend of Rugby
Two games. Two epic encounters. Rugby's greatest teams defied the odds. This wasn’t just another quarter-final weekend; it was undoubtedly the greatest rugby weekend ever. New Zealand and South Africa, two giants of the sport, emerged victorious not because of rankings or individual brilliance, but because they embodied the true spirit of rugby—they never gave up. They fought for a cause.
While both teams went on to produce a spectacle in the final, it’s difficult to imagine anything ever surpassing the magic of that unforgettable weekend in October 2023.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Proteas Women are set for a crucial encounter in their final group stage match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 against Bangladesh, with a semi-final spot on the line. The high-stakes game will be played at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday evening, starting at 18h00 local time (16h00 SAST) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport Grandstand (Ch. 201).
Currently tied on four points with the West Indies at the top of Group B, South Africa only trails by net run rate. However, with England still in contention and one game in hand, the Proteas need a strong performance against Bangladesh to secure a semi-final place. Even then, their final position in the group will depend on other results.
South Africa heads into this fixture with momentum after a commanding 80-run victory over Scotland. Key contributions came from Marizanne Kapp’s explosive 24-ball 43 and Nonkululeko Mlaba’s outstanding figures of 3 for 12. Despite this, the Proteas will be wary of the challenge posed by Bangladesh, who recently drew a T20 series against them in December 2023, securing a notable victory in Benoni with Murshida Khatun’s unbeaten 62* and Shorna Akter’s five-wicket haul.
A special milestone awaits wicketkeeper-batter Sinalo Jafta, who is set to earn her 50th T20I cap for the Proteas. Reflecting on this achievement, Jafta highlighted the personal and professional significance of the occasion: “Tomorrow is a special day in both cricket and my personal life. I’m also two years sober tomorrow, and to play my 50th match on this day is something I could have never imagined.”
Jafta emphasized the importance of composure under pressure ahead of the crucial fixture: “For us, it’s about staying calm and focused. Overthinking can lead to mistakes, and our priority is to remain level-headed and execute our plans.”
The conditions in Dubai will also be a factor, with Jafta noting the need for adaptability, especially after the team’s experience in Sharjah. “Sharjah tested our patience and basics, but we prefer the conditions in Dubai, even though they can be slower. We need to assess the pitch quickly and adjust accordingly.”
Looking ahead to the challenge posed by Bangladesh, Jafta added, “We respect our opposition. We know what’s at stake, and we’re focused on securing the two points and moving forward from there.”
As the Proteas Women aim to secure a third consecutive T20 World Cup semi-final appearance, Jafta’s leadership behind the stumps will be crucial. She acknowledged her role in keeping the fielders alert and energized, a responsibility that will be vital in the high-pressure environment of a World Cup.
The Proteas will rely on their experienced core, including Marizanne Kapp, who stressed the importance of taking one game at a time. Kapp, instrumental in the recent victory over Scotland, noted, “Bangladesh will be tough, especially in these conditions, but we need to keep improving and maintaining our aggressive approach.”
As South Africa eyes a place in the semi-finals, their immediate focus remains on overcoming Bangladesh, a team that has proven to be formidable in the past. With the stakes higher than ever, the Proteas will need a disciplined and strategic approach to keep their World Cup ambitions alive.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
