The Proteas Women are gearing up for an exciting T20 International (T20I) series against Ireland, kicking off at the World Sports Betting Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town this Friday. Captain Laura Wolvaardt has emphasised the team's eagerness to get the series underway, with the first match scheduled for 14h00 (SAST) and broadcast live on SuperSport Grandstand (Ch. 201).
Wolvaardt spoke to the media on Thursday, sharing insights into the team's preparations and their expectations for the three-match series against Ireland. The series will also take the teams to Paarl and Benoni for the second and third T20Is.
World Cup on the Horizon
With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup just around the corner, Wolvaardt acknowledged the rapid approach of the event. She expressed satisfaction with the team's consistent performance, reaching three consecutive World Cup finals, but stressed the importance of finally clearing that final hurdle.
"It's crazy that it's so soon. It feels like we've just come off the World Cup and there's another one in a few months' time," Wolvaardt commented. "We've been playing some good cricket. Obviously, that final hurdle is still in front of us, three in a row. I think we're doing a lot of things right to keep making those finals. But yeah, I think just playing a good game once we reach that stage again."
She added, "Overall, I think the group's been making some really good strides, and hopefully we can get ourselves another final."
Respect for the Irish
Wolvaardt anticipates a competitive series against Ireland, acknowledging their unique brand of cricket and the presence of impactful players like captain Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast. "They're a good side. They have a lot of really good individual players. Gaby Lewis has sort of played around the world. I've played a bit with Orla Prendergast as well. She's a really good cricketer. Players like that can sort of take the game away."
Don't miss the action as the Proteas Women take on Ireland in this crucial T20I series, a key stepping stone towards the upcoming World Cup!