Proteas Women's fire warning shots ahead of World Cup campaign. - Fullview

By Estea Rademeyer.

Photo: CSA.

South Africa’s women’s cricket team could scarcely have asked for a better prelude to the World Cup. Their series triumph over Pakistan in Lahore, sealed with centuries from Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, has underlined not only the strength of the side’s top order but also their growing belief that they can stand shoulder to shoulder with the giants of the game.

In the second ODI, Brits produced the innings of her life, an unbeaten 171 studded with power and precision, while Wolvaardt’s measured 100 offered the perfect foil. Together, they set a foundation that proved insurmountable for Pakistan, guiding the Proteas to an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match contest. Their performances spoke of maturity, resilience, and experience, the hallmarks of a partnership that has grown into one of the most reliable opening pairings in women’s cricket.

That victory was about more than just numbers on the scoreboard. It gave South Africa a valuable taste of conditions that will be strikingly similar to those they are set to encounter at the World Cup starting 30 September. Subcontinental pitches, humid atmospheres, and the need to adapt to moments of unpredictability will all test the mettle of teams. For South Africa, playing in Pakistan has been the perfect dress rehearsal.

Wolvaardt, now one of the most respected batters in the world game, and Brits, whose recent run of form has elevated her into elite company, embody the experience and determination that coach Mashimbyi has instilled in this squad. Under his guidance, the Proteas have built an environment rooted in self-belief and collective purpose.

Mashimbyi has focused his efforts on the basics of the game and allowing the players to express themselves on the field. While fitness is a focus, he has placed more emphasis on executing skills at the vital time. “It’s for us to understand and see how we can push that threshold. But in terms of that, for me as a coach, I just want to see a player that’s fit on the field, that’s able to play the whole game without any issues and be fit throughout the game.

“That’s what I’m looking for, because I’m judging it based on that. I don’t want to see a player that plays half the game and then the other half; they’re nowhere to be found. And that’s how I judge it. And obviously, I’ve been in the game for a long time, so I know exactly what is required from a player’s point of view when it comes to those types of things.” Mashimbyi’s reputation as a tactician and motivator is evident, and those close to the team speak of his passion and intelligence as central to their resurgence.

The South African set-up has also benefited from unprecedented investment in recent years, from fitness and sports science resources to specialist coaching. That commitment is beginning to yield dividends. The team’s depth is stronger than ever, with seasoned campaigners like Marizanne Kapp and young talents complementing the formidable opening duo.

At the World Cup, the challenge will be immense. Australia remains the benchmark, England perennial contenders, and India are desperate to lift their first title. Yet, for the first time in many years, South Africa travel not as hopeful outsiders but as genuine contenders. Their batting strength, adaptability in familiar conditions, and the mental toughness nurtured under Mashimbyi provide a platform from which to challenge cricket’s most prestigious crown.

The question is no longer whether the Proteas Women can compete with the best. After Lahore, the conversation has shifted to whether they are finally ready to conquer the summit. And with Wolvaardt and Brits leading from the front, few would dare to rule them out.

Click here to read article