Dane van Niekerk Eyes International Comeback Ahead of Women’s World Cup
Former South Africa captain Dane van Niekerk is on the brink of a sensational return to international cricket, 18 months after announcing her retirement. The 32-year-old has been included in South Africa’s training squad ahead of the Women’s World Cup, set to take place in the subcontinent next month.
Van Niekerk retired in March 2023 after controversially missing out on selection for the home T20 World Cup due to not meeting Cricket South Africa’s (CSA) strict fitness standards—specifically, failing a two-kilometre time trial. However, CSA has since relaxed those criteria, allowing selection at the coach’s discretion.
“I’ve decided to revoke my retirement from international cricket,” Van Niekerk announced in a heartfelt Instagram post. “The time away has reminded me just how much I’ve missed representing my country. I apologise to Cricket South Africa and the cricket family for how I handled my retirement and I’m committed to meeting the standards of the women’s game.”
She last played international cricket in September 2021 and missed the 2022 ODI World Cup due to an ankle injury. Her road to a comeback began with strong domestic performances for Western Province. While her 50-over numbers were solid—179 runs at an average of 59.66—it was in the T20 format where she truly impressed, finishing as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the Pro20 competition.
Van Niekerk’s return is a potential boost for South Africa, who have struggled for consistency in the middle order. Her experience, leadership, and legspin make her a strong candidate for World Cup selection.
South Africa will be captained by Laura Wolvaardt at the World Cup, though she is currently unavailable for the training camp due to commitments in The Hundred in England. Also absent from the camp are senior players Marizanne Kapp—Van Niekerk’s wife—and Chloe Tryon, who are likewise playing in the UK but are expected to be named in the final World Cup squad.
The 20-player training group will train in Durban this week, with 12 spots up for grabs. Tazmin Brits, Ayabonga Khaka, and Nonkululeko Mlaba are considered automatic selections, while others like batter Faye Tunnicliffe and legspinner Seshnie Naidu may be competing for fringe places. The camp also features 19-year-old uncapped allrounder Luyanda Nzuza, a standout from the Under-19 World Cup and recent Emerging tour to Bangladesh.
South Africa’s final squad will be announced following the camp. The team will then travel to Pakistan for a three-match ODI series from September 16 to 22, serving as preparation for the World Cup. South Africa have reached the semi-finals in the last two editions of the tournament and will aim to go further this time.
South Africa Training Squad:
Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Luyanda Nzuza, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miané Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, Dane van Niekerk