South Africa name uncapped Seshnie Naidu for Women's T20 World Cup

Uncapped leg-spinner Seshnie Naidu, 18, has been included in South Africa’s 15-member squad for the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, which will be played in the UAE in October. Right-arm seamer Ayanda Hlubi, 20, is also part of the squad. Both these players were part of South Africa’s 2023 Under-19 Women's World Cup squad.

Apart from these two, wicketkeeper-batter Mieke de Ridder is the only player who wasn’t part of the set-up that played the final of the last T20 World Cup in 2023. This is also the first time Laura Wolvaardt will be captaining South Africa in a World Cup.

"Laura has been exceptional as a leader, bringing a holistic approach to the team. She leads with respect and integrity, and we are excited to see her leadership and playing qualities shine at the World Cup,” said CSA Proteas Women Convenor of Selectors Clinton du Preez

"Seshnie Naidu has shown significant growth as a bowler within our camps, and we see her as an X-factor for the World Cup. She brings a unique element to our bowling attack, offering something different that could be pivotal.

"We've had strong competition for places, and while some players will unfortunately miss out, these decisions were made based on balance, form, fitness, and strategic considerations for the format. Every selection was carefully considered to ensure the best possible squad for this important tournament.”

South Africa are placed in Group B alongside the West Indies, Bangladesh, Scotland and England. They will start their campaign against the West Indies in Dubai on October 4. Next month, South Africa will take the same squad to Pakistan for a three-match T20I series.

South Africa squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Mieke de Ridder (wk), Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon

Travelling Reserve: Miane Smit

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