Cricket South Africa (CSA) has revealed their Emerging Women’s team squad that is set to tour Bangladesh in May, marking a pivotal moment for the nation’s rising cricket stars. Designed as a high-value developmental series, the tour will challenge the team across both formats in unfamiliar subcontinental conditions — a vital environment for nurturing international-calibre talent.
The tour itinerary features three one-day matches scheduled in Chattogram between 06 and 11 May, followed by three T20 clashes in Cox’s Bazar from 14 to 18 May.
With an eye on structure and growth, leadership roles have been clearly defined. Fast bowler Leah Jones, representing has been named captain for the T20 leg, while spinner Kgomotso Rapoo will lead the squad during the 50-over matches. Overseeing the group is head coach Dinesha Devnarain, who brings tactical sharpness and developmental insight to the setup.
Head of High-Performance Grant van Velden emphasised the strategic importance of the series in CSA’s broader pipeline vision. Introducing his thoughts, he stated, “This tour is an important one for our emerging players across both our men’s and women’s domestic system to gain international experience.”
He underlined the value of playing in Bangladesh, noting, “Touring Bangladesh provides a unique opportunity to develop and test skills in traditionally tough subcontinent conditions, something that is essential as our players continue to grow through the national pipeline.”
Van Velden also highlighted the balance of the squad, describing its role in bridging the gap between local and international stages. He said, “The women’s squad comprises a mix of players who have represented the junior and senior national teams as well as those on the fringe, making this a tour to build on that experience and challenge for higher honours.”
He concluded by placing the series within the larger developmental calendar, adding, “The tour also leads into the start of this year’s Emerging Academy programme, which runs from June to July, with that intake set to be announced later this week.”
The squad departs for Bangladesh on Thursday, 01 May. The first half of the tour will feature three one-day games at the BSFLMRCS Ground in Chattogram, scheduled for 06 May, 08 May, and 11 May. The action then moves to Cox’s Bazar for the T20 leg, with matches set for 14 May, 16 May, and 18 May at the Cox’s Bazar Academy Ground.
South Africa Emerging Women’s Squad for Bangladesh Tour:
Leah Jones (T20 captain), Kgomotso Rapoo (50-over captain), Alexandra Candler, Nicole De Klerk, Jenna Evans, Ghandi Jafta, Zintle Kula, Eliz-Mari Marx, Mona Lisa Legodi, Simone Lourens, Luyanda Nzuza, Verunissa Reddy, Nonkululeko Thabethe, Delmi Tucker, and Faye Tunnicliffe
Their campaign will be guided by a full support staff comprising Dinesha Devnarain (Head Coach), Marcia Letsoalo (Manager), Claire Terblanche (Batting Coach), Angelique Taai (Bowling Coach), Yolandi van der Westhuizen (Fielding Coach), Dr Dhavina Naidoo-Jewkes (Team Doctor), Stacey-lee Hercules (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Tshepi Letsholo (Physiotherapist), and Adele van Eck (Team Analyst).
With a meticulously selected squad, experienced support team, and a challenging schedule ahead, the South Africa Emerging Women are set for a tour that promises growth, grit, and the forging of future stars for South African cricket.
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