Six Changes Define South Africa Women’s 2025 World Cup Ambitions

As the 2025 ICC Women ODI World Cup edges closer, South Africa has unveiled a refreshed squad that signals a bold new chapter for their women’s cricket. Led by Laura Wolvaardt, the Proteas have introduced six new names, blending youth and experience in their bid to make a strong impact in India and Sri Lanka later this year.

The team looks different from the team that impressed in New Zealand 3 years ago. They don’t have key players such as Shabnim Ismail, Lizelle Lee, Mignon du Preez, and Trisha Chetty have retired, leaving gaps that require new leaders. Anneke Bosch, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Karabo Meso, Nondumiso Shangase, and reserve Miane Smit step into that space. Each brings a unique skill set, promising to shape South Africa’s campaign in unfamiliar conditions.

At 32, Bosch finally earns her first World Cup appearance after years on the fringes. De Klerk, still only 25, already carries the responsibility of a seasoned all-rounder with 54 ODI wickets and two half-centuries to her name. Dercksen, at 24, has been one of South Africa’s most exciting recent finds, capable of changing games with both bat and ball.

The boldest selection is 17-year-old wicketkeeper Karabo Meso, handed the gloves in place of Chetty. Her youth and agility behind the stumps could prove vital on slow subcontinental pitches. Shangase is a tactically versatile, off-spinning batting all-rounder, and Smit comes in as a travelling reserve to gain exposure.

South Africa women's cricket players have already been visible in tournaments such as the Women’s Premier League, where their players have showcased consistency under pressure. The Hundred has also offered younger stars the opportunity to compete against the very best in the world. The two experiences are now contributing to the World Cup challenge.

On October 3, the Proteas will start their campaign against England in Guwahati. The question is whether this new-looking side can combine youthful energy with big-match stamina. What is evident, though, is that South Africa is not just rebuilding; they are redefining their way to World Cup 2025 success.