Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a 15-member Proteas Women squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India at home, marking their final international assignment before the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England. Led by captain Laura Wolvaardt, the squad largely retains its core as South Africa look to build momentum and combinations ahead of the global tournament in June. The series, scheduled from April 17 to 27, will be played across Durban, Johannesburg, and Benoni.
South Africa head into the series high on confidence after a 3-2 T20I series win over New Zealand, a closely fought contest that showcased both emerging talent and experienced match-winners. One of the standout performers was Kayla Reyneke, who impressed in her debut series with the bat, scoring 109 runs and providing crucial contributions in the middle order. Her performances have strengthened her case as a reliable option heading into the World Cup.
With the ball, Ayabonga Khaka led the attack brilliantly, finishing as South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in the series with eight wickets. Her consistency and ability to strike at key moments played a major role in sealing the series, while all-round contributions from players like Chloé Tryon and Nadine de Klerk added further balance to the side.
The squad for the India series shows a strong emphasis on continuity, with most players from recent assignments retaining their places. The only notable addition is uncapped player Tebogo Macheke, a wicket-keeper batter who earns a maiden call-up and adds fresh depth to the setup.
Squad: Laura Wolvaardt (C), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Suné Luus, Tebogo Macheke, Eliz-Mari Marx, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Kayla Reyneke, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon
The inclusion of Macheke instead of Karabo Meso is the only significant change, indicating that the selectors are backing a settled group as they fine-tune their preparations. Experienced names like Suné Luus and Tazmin Brits continue to provide stability.
The five-match series begins at Kingsmead in Durban with matches on April 17 and 19, before moving to the Wanderers in Johannesburg for games on April 22 and 25. The series concludes on April 27—Freedom Day at Willowmoore Park in Benoni. This series serves as South Africa’s final opportunity to test combinations and build rhythm ahead of the World Cup. With India also entering the series in strong form, the contest is expected to provide high-quality preparation for both sides.
Alongside the squad announcement, Cricket South Africa confirmed changes to the Proteas Women’s support staff. The contracts of batting coach Baakier Abrahams, fielding coach Bongani Ndaba, and strength and conditioning coach Zane Webster will conclude at the end of the 2025/26 season and will not be renewed, as part of a planned transition within the national setup.
With a settled squad, emerging performers stepping up, and key players in form, South Africa appear well-prepared for the challenges ahead. The India series will not only test their readiness but also shape their final combinations as they aim for a strong showing at the World Cup.
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