18 - 06 - 2025

Proteas Women Secure ODI Series Win in the Caribbean

Newly appointed Proteas Women’s head coach Mandla Mashimbyi expressed his satisfaction following SAs 2-1 series victory over the West Indies, capped off with a dominant 166-run win via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method in a rain-affected final match.


SA bounced back after losing the opening game by four wickets, showing marked improvements in bowling discipline — a concern noted earlier in the tour. According to Mashimbyi, the players' commitment in recent months was evident, and winning a series in the Caribbean was a significant achievement. He also emphasised that while the team is still developing, the effort and determination are encouraging signs of progress.


The Proteas batting form has been consistently strong, having posted multiple 300-run innings during their recent tri-series in Sri Lanka. In the West Indies, opening pair Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits continued their form, with Brits scoring a century and Wolvaardt contributing 75 runs. Their efforts helped the team reach 278 in 45.5 overs — a total that proved unassailable.


Nondumiso Shangase’s half-century in the second ODI was described by Mashimbyi as an emotional and proud moment for the team. This tour marked his first visit to the West Indies as head coach, making the series win even more meaningful.


With the ICC Womens World Cup scheduled in India this September, Mashimbyi stated that the recent tours have helped fine-tune the team’s batting combinations. He highlighted the importance of deploying players in positions where they can have the most impact, rather than rigidly assigning them by batting number.


The team has developed its own Bomb Squad—a trio of players (Chloe Tryon, Delmi Tucker, and Nadine de Klerk) who are tasked with shifting momentum late in the innings, whether rescuing a collapse or building on a strong foundation. Mashimbyi noted that these tactical changes are beginning to yield positive results.


He also pointed out the noticeable improvement in bowling discipline, especially from the first match in Colombo to the recent games in the Caribbean. The return of veteran Marizanne Kapp was described as a major boost due to her wealth of experience and influence.


Mashimbyi concluded that while there’s still work ahead, the team is on the right track and building confidence ahead of the World Cup.