Mandla Mashimbyi turns to youth as Proteas Women face Zimbabwe

Mandla Mashimbyi has selected a youthful 15-player Proteas Women squad for the assignment against Zimbabwe, with Caitlin Wyngaard, Nthabiseng Nini and Luyanda Nzuza included for the first time. The trio impressed during the SA Emerging team’s recent tour of Bangladesh Emerging.

The coach’s selection is intended to develop competition within the squad rather than simply provide rest for established players. Mashimbyi is assessing a wider group of 35 players who remain eligible for the Champions Trophy, while giving emerging candidates an opportunity to challenge the current Proteas core through their performances.

Karabo Meso and Kayla Reyneke have continued to establish themselves in the national setup, while former Under-19 players Seshnie Naidu and Miané Smit return to the team. Their inclusion adds to a group that combines new options with players who have already gained experience at international level.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt leads the experienced contingent. Sinalo Jafta, Anneke Bosch, Eliz-Mari Marx, Nondumiso Shangase and Ayanda Hlubi are also part of the squad, giving Mashimbyi senior figures around the younger selections.

Faye Tunnicliffe has also been recalled after producing strong performances domestically and for the Emerging side. She had previously struggled to secure a regular place in the Proteas team, but her recent form has earned another opportunity to prove she can transfer that output to international cricket.

Mashimbyi’s planning extends beyond the immediate fixtures, with the development work aimed at preparing South Africa for the 2029 ICC Women’s World Cup. Although Zimbabwe have less experience than the Proteas Women, the coach expects his players to approach the matches with the same intensity and respect given to any major opponent.