South Africa Women’s Cricket Gears Up in Durban Ahead of Pakistan Tour & 2025 World Cup

on Sep 28, 2025 - by Janine Ferriera - 0

When Laura Wolvaardt, captain of the South Africa women's cricket team, missed the Durban training camp, fans wondered how the side would cope.

The 20‑member squad converged in Durban from 25 August to 1 September 2025 for a week‑long intensive session that serves as the final checkpoint before a three‑match ODI series against Pakistan and the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 in India and Sri Lanka.

Camp dates: 25 Aug – 1 Sep 2025
Key absentees: Chloé Tryon, Marizanne Kapp (both on The Hundred commitments)
Emerging talent: 19‑year‑old all‑rounder Luyanda Nzuza
Veteran comeback: former captain Dane van Niekerk
Coach: Mandla Mashimbyi

Why Durban Matters

Durban’s Kingsmead grounds have been the training hub for the Proteas for years, offering hard‑fast pitches that mimic sub‑continental conditions. Coach Mandla Mashimbyi said, “The players have put in a huge amount of work over the past few months, and this camp will be crucial to iron out the finishing touches before we head to Pakistan and then the World Cup.”

Besides the on‑field drills, the week includes video analysis, mental‑skill workshops, and a series of intra‑squad matches that let fringe players stake their claim.

Key Players In and Out

While Laura Wolvaardt is tied up with England’s The Hundred, the coaching staff expects her return before the World Cup, meaning the squad must stay competitive in her absence.

All‑rounder Chloé Tryon and pace spearhead Marizanne Kapp are also away, forcing younger bowlers like Ayabonga Khaka and Nonkululeko Mlaba to shoulder more responsibility.

Emerging Talent: Luyanda Nzuza’s Breakthrough

Born in Port Elizabeth, Luyanda Nzuza impressed at the U19 World Cup earlier this year, scoring 284 runs and taking 12 wickets. Her senior call‑up marks a swift transition from youth to elite level, and she’ll be trialling both top‑order batting and off‑spin in the intra‑squad games.

“I’m thrilled to wear the Proteas jersey,” Nzuza told reporters. “It’s a huge step, but I’m ready to learn from the veterans and give the team what they need.”

Veteran Comeback: Dane van Niekerk Returns

Perhaps the biggest headline from the Durban camp is the inclusion of former captain Dane van Niekerk. After announcing retirement in March 2023 and a two‑year hiatus from international cricket, she re‑joined the squad after a successful stint with the Emerging side in Bangladesh.

Van Niekerk’s experience could be a game‑changer, especially on the spin‑friendly pitches in the sub‑continent. “The team needs leadership on and off the field, and I’m happy to contribute,” she said, adding that she’s focused on fitness and fielding.

Pakistan Tour – The Crucial Test

The Proteas will travel to Lahore for a three‑match ODI series at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in September 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the fixtures on 12 July 2025, with the first match slated for 3 September.

These games serve as a litmus test for the squad’s balance: the pace attack will be measured against Pakistan’s strong batting lineup, while the spin department will gauge how well the team adapts to slower turn‑friendly surfaces.

World Cup Outlook

South Africa’s World Cup campaign kicks off against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on 13 October 2025. A solid showing in Pakistan is expected to sharpen the side ahead of that opening showdown.

Analysts predict that the Proteas’ best chance lies in a flexible batting order and a varied bowling attack that can swing both ways. With the blend of seasoned campaigners and fresh faces, the team is betting on depth over star power.

What Comes Next?

Final squad announcements for both the Pakistan tour and the World Cup will be made in early September, shortly after the Durban camp wraps up. Fans can expect a press conference on 5 September where Coach Mandla Mashimbyi will reveal the selected XI.

Whether the team leans on the veteran leadership of Dane van Niekerk or backs the raw energy of Luyanda Nzuza, the journey from Durban to Lahore and then to the sub‑continent promises drama, determination, and maybe a few surprise performances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Durban camp crucial for South Africa’s World Cup preparation?

Durban offers conditions that mimic sub‑continental pitches, allowing the team to fine‑tune batting against spin and pace in a controlled environment. The week‑long camp also provides time for health checks, mental‑skill workshops, and intra‑squad matches that help the coach assess form before the high‑stakes Pakistan series and the World Cup.

Which players are missing from the camp and why?

Captain Laura Wolvaardt, all‑rounder Chloé Tryon, and seamer Marizanne Kapp are in England for The Hundred tournament, meaning they will re‑join the squad after the camp, just before the World Cup.

What role does Dane van Niekerk play after her comeback?

Van Niekerk provides senior leadership and a wealth of experience, especially in pressure situations. While she may not be a guaranteed starter, her presence adds depth to the batting order and offers strategic input for spin bowling plans.

How will the Pakistan series influence the World Cup squad?

The three ODIs at Gaddafi Stadium will act as a live audition. Performances will help the selectors decide between fringe players like Faye Tunnicliffe and established names. A strong showing could secure a spot in the final World Cup roster.