New Delhi, September 3 (HS): Former South Africa captain Dane van Niekerk has been left out of the country’s 15-member squad for the upcoming Women’s World Cup, announced by Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Wednesday.

Van Niekerk, who recently returned from international retirement and was part of the provisional 20-member camp, failed to secure a place in the final lineup. The experienced batter’s omission comes as a major talking point ahead of the marquee tournament.

The team will be led by Laura Wolvaardt, with seasoned campaigners Chloe Tryon, Marizanne Kapp, Suné Luus, and Ayabonga Khaka forming the core of the side. Sinalo Jafta and Karabo Meso have been named as wicketkeepers, with Meso set to feature in her first-ever senior World Cup.

Promising all-rounder Miane Smit has been listed as a traveling reserve, repeating the role she played during last year’s T20 World Cup. Before the World Cup, South Africa will tour Pakistan for a three-match ODI series, after which they will begin their campaign on October 3 against England. Their group-stage fixtures also include high-stakes clashes against New Zealand, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Australia.

Head coach Hilton Moreeng (corr: Mandla Mashimbyi for men’s), speaking about the squad, said: “Since I began working with this team, our primary objective has been to prepare thoroughly for the World Cup. We believe this group has the capability to make the nation proud; now it’s about maintaining belief at every step.”

South Africa’s Women’s World Cup Squad

Laura Wolvaardt (captain)

Ayabonga Khaka

Chloe Tryon

Nadine de Klerk

Marizanne Kapp

Tazmin Brits

Sinalo Jafta

Nonkululeko Mlaba

Anneke Bosch

Annerie Dercksen

Masabata Klaas

Suné Luus

Karabo Meso

Tumi Sekhukhune

Nondumiso Shangase

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar