South Africa Women have suffered a big setback ahead of their ICC Women’s Championship ODI series against Pakistan, with senior all-rounder Marizanne Kapp ruled out.
Kapp, one of the most trusted and experienced players in the Proteas camp, started feeling discomfort shortly after finishing her spell in the first innings of the third T20I in Benoni on Monday. At first, it did not seem too serious, but after further medical checks, the team management decided not to take any chances. The call was made to rest her as a precaution, keeping her long-term fitness in mind rather than pushing her through an important but demanding series.
Her absence leaves a noticeable gap. Kapp is not just another senior player, she is someone who brings control, calmness and balance to the team. With the ball, she has the ability to strike early and build pressure. With the bat, she can steady the innings or accelerate when needed. In 162 ODIs, she has scored 3511 runs at a strike rate of 78 and picked up 181 wickets including best bowling figure of 5/20, these stats reflect her impact and consistency over the years.
That kind of experience is very crucial ahead of the ICC Women’s Championship series from 22 February to 01 March is never easy. With Kapp sidelined, the selectors have handed a maiden national call-up to Lions bowling all-rounder Fay Cowling. The 18 years old impressed at last month’s national training camp in Tshwane, where she trained and showed that she belongs at the highest level. A former South Africa Under-19 Women standout, Cowling has been steadily building her reputation in domestic cricket through hard work and consistent performances.
She is known for her disciplined bowling and useful contributions with the bat down the order, qualities that make her a valuable all-round option. More importantly, she brings energy and hunger, something every team needs in big tournaments and pressure series.
For Proteas Women, this situation is both a challenge and a test of depth. Replacing someone like Kapp overnight is not realistic, but it is also a chance for younger players to step up and prove themselves. The team will now need to adjust combinations and roles, ensuring they maintain balance heading into a competitive series against Pakistan.
As South Africa prepares for the ODI series, the focus will remain on two things, Kapp’s smooth recovery and Cowling’s exciting first step in international cricket. That is the natural rhythm of the game, and perhaps the most beautiful part of it.
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