Cricket South Africa has named a 15-player Proteas Women squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India at home, their final international assignment ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England. Captained by Laura Wolvaardt, the squad largely retains its core group as the team looks to refine combinations before the global tournament in June. The series is scheduled from April 17 to 27 and will be played in Durban, Johannesburg, and Benoni.
South Africa enter the series on the back of a 3-2 T20I series win over New Zealand, a closely contested campaign that highlighted both emerging talent and experienced performers. Kayla Reyneke was among the standout players, scoring 109 runs in her debut series and making key contributions in the middle order.
With the ball, Ayabonga Khaka led the attack, finishing as the leading wicket-taker for South Africa with eight wickets. Her ability to deliver at important moments proved decisive, while all-round efforts from Chloé Tryon and Nadine de Klerk added balance to the side.
Macheke Gets First Call-Up, Marx Returns
The squad for the India series reflects continuity, with most players from recent assignments retaining their places. The only new face is uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Tebogo Macheke, who receives her first call-up and adds depth to the squad.
Eliz-Mari Marx also returns to the setup, while the inclusion of Macheke in place of Karabo Meso marks the only significant change. The selectors have opted to back a settled group, with experienced players such as Suné Luus and Tazmin Brits continuing to provide stability.
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
Series Schedule
The five-match series begins at Kingsmead in Durban with fixtures on April 17 and 19. The teams will then move to the Wanderers in Johannesburg for matches on April 22 and 25, before concluding the series on April 27 — Freedom Day — at Willowmoore Park in Benoni.
This series represents South Africa’s final chance to fine-tune combinations and build momentum ahead of the World Cup. With India also arriving in strong form, the contest is expected to offer high-quality preparation for both sides.
Support Staff Changes
Alongside the squad announcement, Cricket South Africa confirmed adjustments 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.
With a largely settled squad, in-form players, and emerging talent stepping up, South Africa appear well-positioned ahead of the upcoming challenges. The India series will play a key role in shaping their final preparations for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
