The New Zealand tour challenged us in various ways, whether it was the conditions, our execution or the opposition, while the India series was another good test against one of the strongest teams in the world. Winning that series gave the group a lot of confidence, but more importantly, it showed the ability and resilience within the squad. Players stepped up at different times and that’s something you need at a World Cup.
I think those tours also reinforced that we’re moving in the right direction as a team. We’ve been super focused on being consistent over the last year and there’s a strong belief within the group about what we’re capable of achieving.
Reaching back-to-back T20 World Cup finals has obviously been very special for us as a team, but I think it’s also made us even hungrier to go one step further. Behind the scenes, there’s been a massive focus on trusting the process and improving in the small moments that can decide big games.
We’ve spent a lot of time looking back at key situations from previous tournaments and understanding where we can be better, whether that’s tactically, mentally or in how we handle pressure moments. There’s also been a big emphasis on creating an environment where everyone feels clear about their role while prioritising the process that we have to follow in order to achieve our goals.
One of the strengths of this team is how close we have become off the field. We’ve built strong relationships and trust within the group over time, and I think that really helps in pressure situations. There’s a calmness and maturity within the squad now that comes from having experienced players who have been part of those big matches in the past.
Personally, it’s been one of my most enjoyable seasons. I think a big part of that has come from clarity in my game and just enjoying my cricket. I’ve tried not to put too much pressure on myself and instead focus on contributing to the team in whatever way is needed.
As captain, your focus naturally shifts towards the team’s success first, but I’ve found that when the environment around you is good and the team is performing well, it often helps your own game too. I’ve also learned a lot over the years about managing expectations and staying level-headed through both good and bad performances.
The increase in prize money for this tournament is hugely important for the women’s game. It’s another strong statement about how far the game has come and where it’s heading.
For young girls watching around the world, seeing the investment and opportunities continue to grow makes a massive difference. It shows that women’s cricket is being taken seriously and valued on the global stage.
I think the ICC has made it very clear through things like this that there is real intent to continue growing the women’s game around the world. We’ve already seen incredible progress over the last few years in terms of, crowds, broadcast coverage and overall interest in the women’s game, and I think this is another important step in that journey.
Coming back to England for a World Cup almost a decade after 2017 is quite crazy. I was still very young during that tournament and just trying to take everything in. Looking back now, I think both myself and the team have grown massively since then.
We’ve gained so much experience over the years, not only through World Cups but also through playing consistent international cricket against the best teams in the world. The group is more confident, more settled and probably has a much deeper understanding of what it takes to compete and most importantly, win at this level consistently.
At the same time, I think South African women’s cricket as a whole has grown superbly since 2017. The support around the team and the belief from the public has changed significantly over the years, especially after the success we’ve had in recent tournaments.
Having eight players in the squad who were part of that 2017 World Cup is definitely valuable for us. Experience counts for a lot in tournaments like these, especially when you come up against pressure situations or difficult moments during the competition.
Players like Suné Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Ayabonga Khaka and Dané van Niekerk have been through so much international cricket and bring a lot of calmness and leadership to the group.
And then, of course, having Shabnim Ismail back is very exciting for us. Everyone knows the quality and experience she brings. She’s one of the best fast bowlers in the world and someone who can change a game very quickly. Beyond her skill, she also brings a level of gees (Afrikaans word for vibe) to the group, and I know the team is really happy to have her back in Proteas colours again, to hopefully help us go that one step further and lift the trophy.
