Proteas Women’s captain Laura Wolvaardt ready to make history at the World Cup

Proteas Women’s captain Laura Wolvaardt says it is an “incredible honour” to lead South Africa on the global stage, as the national side gears up for the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India.

The squad was officially honoured at a capping and send-off ceremony in Johannesburg on Wednesday afternoon, with Cricket South Africa (CSA) presenting the 16-player Proteas Women's squad and management team with their green and gold blazers in front of staff, media, and well-wishers. Each player also received a commemorative gift ahead of what promises to be a defining chapter for the team.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were CSA President Rihan Richards, and Henno Havenga, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Suzuki Auto South Africa – a key partner of the team.

Wolvaardt, who previously captained the side to a memorable T20 World Cup final in the UAE, will now lead South Africa into her first ODI World Cup as skipper.

“It is an incredible honour to lead this team into a World Cup,” said Wolvaardt. “Today’s ceremony reminds us that we are part of something far greater than ourselves – we represent every South African who believes in us.

“On behalf of the squad, I want to thank CSA, our partners, and most importantly, our fans, who are always with us no matter where we play. We are determined to give our all and make the country proud.”

CSA CEO Pholetsi Moseki echoed those sentiments in his address, expressing full support and pride in the squad.

“The Proteas Women embody the unbreakable spirit of South Africa,” Moseki said. “They inspire not only through their performances on the field but also through the unity, resilience, and pride with which they represent our country.

“As they embark on this World Cup journey, they carry with them the hopes of millions of South Africans. We wish Laura and the team the very best. Go and make history, knowing your nation stands firmly behind you.

“We are also deeply grateful to Suzuki Auto South Africa for their unwavering support, which has played a vital role in helping this team grow and thrive on the global stage.”

Before heading to India for the World Cup, the Proteas Women will fine-tune their preparations with a three-match ODI series against Pakistan in Lahore from 16 to 22 September.

The World Cup itself is scheduled to run from September 30 to November 2, and the team will be bolstered by the addition of Claire Terblanche to the technical staff. The current Western Province head coach and former national batter joins as Assistant Coach for both the Pakistan series and the World Cup campaign.

With momentum, belief, and a nation behind them, Wolvaardt and her charges are set to fly the flag high — with hopes of rewriting history in the subcontinent.

Proteas Women's squad for 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and Pakistan Tour

Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Chloé Tryon.

Travelling reserve: Miané Smit