Cricket South Africa (CSA) has officially declared Laura Wolvaardt the captain of all three formats ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming tour. The 24-year-old, who served as the interim skipper during the Pakistan and New Zealand series, will lead the Proteas in T20Is and ODIs against Bangladesh from December 3-23. Wolvaardt’s successful stint as temporary captain, which saw consecutive series wins and impressive performances with the bat, has earned her a permanent leadership role.

Clinton du Preez, South Africa’s Women’s Convenor of Selectors, highlighted the challenges, stating,

“A few of our senior players are not available for the T20-leg of the Bangladesh Tour due to injury and those returning from the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). We are excited to provide an opportunity to our extended identified group, especially on the back of some injuries.”

With an eye on the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, South Africa Women’s head coach, Hilton Moreeng, expressed the intent to blend in youngsters during the T20Is against Bangladesh.

“For the T20Is, this is where we are going to look, where possible, to blend in youngsters and give them an opportunity to expose themselves at this level to keep growing the base,”

Moreeng said, emphasizing the squad’s growing strength.

Squad: Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Annerie Dercksen, Mieke de Ridder, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Delmi Tucker, Laura Wolvaardt