Dane van Niekerk, captain of the South African women’s cricket team until she wasn’t, has been unceremoniously cut from the team. This decision is especially interesting given the proximity to the next T20 World Cup. Cricket South Africa issued a statement which made it clear that the 32-year-old all-rounder had failed to pass the rigorous fitness tests needed to be selected. Van Niekerk had a difficult time, not appearing for the national side since March 2023. This decision comes on the heels of those challenges.
Owing to his all-round prowess, Van Niekerk has an incredible ODI average of 36.25 with the bat. Her most recent outing in international cricket was back in September 2021. She suffered an ankle injury in early 2022 that limited her to just five appearances. She had set a goal of rejoining the competitive ranks in time for a home World Cup in February 2023. Unfortunately, her attempt failed when she was unable to finish the required 2km run within the time limit.
Earlier this year, van Niekerk was unable to make the T20 World Cup squad. She had failed to fulfill the maximum fitness standards set! Following this disappointment, she declared her retirement from international South African duty in March 2023. She didn’t let that stop her from being a regular player on the national domestic scene. Recently, van Niekerk reversed her retirement and was included in a broader training camp aimed at familiarizing players with team expectations.
South Africa’s coach Mandla Mashimbyi clarified van Niekerk’s current status in a statement regarding her participation in the training camp. He pointed out that she is one of the cohort to allow her to realize those around her are there to support her in learning what’s expected. He made clear, she will certainly not make the World Cup squad. He added, “She’s just part of the bigger or broader base of players that we’re trying to bring into our environment.”
Even though van Niekerk has missed the World Cup, she says she’s focused on getting back to full fitness. She acknowledged her current fitness level, stating, “I know I’m probably not where everyone is at the moment. I understand where I need to be for the team.”
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