South Africa Gears Up for Sri Lanka Series with T20 World Cup in Sight
South Africa is set to host Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series, followed by an equal number of ODIs. This series will also contribute to the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25 cycle.
Proteas skipper Laura Wolvaardt has emphasized the importance of this series in the team’s preparation for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
“With limited cricket left before the World Cup, these three T20Is are crucial for us to experiment with different combinations and finalize our starting XI for the World Cup,” Wolvaardt stated in the pre-match press conference.
This marks the first time since 2019 that South Africa is hosting Sri Lanka Women in a bilateral series. The two teams last faced each other in the T20 World Cup in South Africa, where Sri Lanka emerged victorious by a narrow margin of three runs.
“We’re not taking this series lightly,” Wolvaardt added. “Sri Lanka has been performing well recently, even defeating England in the T20I series. We aim to start strong.”
Wolvaardt also shared her personal journey of refining her technical skills after an average performance against Australia.
“Despite not having my best series in Australia, I managed to deliver a couple of good knocks in the WPL. I didn’t make drastic changes, but focused on improving some technical aspects. I’m feeling good and enjoyed batting again at the WPL,” she said.
Wolvaardt also praised senior player Sune Luus, who is on the verge of becoming the most capped T20I player for South Africa Women.
“Sune has been a consistent performer and has significantly improved her batting. Her experience and advice are invaluable to the team,” Wolvaardt commented.
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The Sri Lanka tour of South Africa can be watched live, on-demand, and for free on ICC.tv.
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Fixtures:
27 March: 1st T20I, Willowmoore Park, Benoni
30 March: 2nd T20I, Senwes Park, Potchefstroom
3 April: 3rd T20I, Buffalo Park, East London
9 April: 1st ODI, Buffalo Park, East London
13 April: 2nd ODI, Diamond Oval, Kimberley
17 April: 3rd ODI, Senwes Park, Potchefstroom