The sport will be played at the quadrennial event for the first time South Africa will fancy their chances of winning a medal.

The Proteas have been gearing for this moment ever since departing South Africa for their tour of Ireland and England.

The Proteas vice-captain, Chloe Tryon, said they can wait to get going.

 “When we heard the news that women’s cricket will be in the Commonwealth Games, we were all buzzed about it. Being Team South Africa and representing them will be fantastic.

“We are excited for the experience. The girls are eager to get out there and start playing again. We had a couple of days off to get ourselves ready and get into the Team South Africa clothes and go represent.”

The Proteas will get their campaign underway at 13:00 on Saturday at Edgbaston when they face New Zealand.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport