Dane van Niekerk Must Meet Key Requirements to Return to Proteas Women Squad

Former national captain Dane van Niekerk faces a crucial test if she hopes to don the Proteas jersey again ahead of the upcoming Women’s World Cup in India. She had stepped away from international duty in 2023, and van Niekerk’s path back into the squad is far from straightforward.

Time Trial Setback Still Lingers

Van Niekerk’s exit from the national setup followed her omission from the 2023 T20 World Cup squad, hosted here in the country. That decision came after she failed to meet Cricket South Africa’s (CSA) fitness requirement: completing a 2km run in 9 minutes and 30 seconds. The veteran all-rounder fell short by just 18 seconds. This small margin had significant consequences.

Since then, van Niekerk has stayed away from top-level competition for over a year. However, earlier this season, she returned to the domestic scene with Western Province. She aims to reignite her international career and push for a spot in the World Cup squad. However, her absence from the recently announced squad for the West Indies tour has cast doubt on whether that comeback will materialise in time.

Still a Chance — But Only If She Delivers

Proteas Women head coach Mandla Mashimbyi has not completely closed the door on van Niekerk. Speaking candidly, he explained that while she isn’t part of the current plans, circumstances could change before the global tournament.

“We’re not at a point where we can say definitively whether she’ll make it or not,” Mashimbyi stated. “She’s not involved in this tour, but I did speak with her back in February about what she needs to do to be considered again. I’ll have to follow up with her on how she feels about the way forward.”

His comments indicate that van Niekerk must first meet specific expectations laid out by the coaching staff before any consideration can be given to her re-integration. Though details of those requirements weren’t disclosed, it’s clear that fitness remains a primary concern.

Proteas Focused on Building Squad Depth

Mashimbyi emphasised that the current tours are also about expanding the team’s player pool. They are offering others an opportunity to step up ahead of the World Cup.

“These tours aren’t set in stone,” he noted. “They’re part of a broader effort to develop squad depth. I’ll never be the kind of coach to rule a player out completely. Anyone performing in domestic cricket still has a shot at selection for the upcoming World Cups.”

This approach provides a glimmer of hope for van Niekerk and others working to force their way back into the mix. But it also signals that national selection will favour form, fitness, and performance over past reputation alone.

A Glorious Career That May Still Add Another Chapter

Dane van Niekerk remains one of the most accomplished players in our country’s women’s cricket history. Over a 14-year international career, she featured in 107 ODIs, 86 T20Is and a single Test. She amassed 2,175 runs in ODIs and claimed 204 wickets across formats. Her experience and leadership were vital assets to the national team for many years.

Yet, despite her pedigree, the landscape has shifted. The bar has been set, and selectors are watching closely to see which players are willing and able to meet it. If van Niekerk can prove her readiness, physically and mentally, she might still carve out one last hurrah on the world stage.

Will the Proteas Legend Make a Fairytale Return?

As the countdown to the World Cup continues, all eyes will be on whether Dane van Niekerk can defy the odds. With time ticking and competition stiff, her story could either end in redemption or remain one of missed opportunities. What is clear, however, is that only her performance and preparation can rewrite the next chapter.

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