The defending champions, the Oval Invincibles, boast the Proteas Women trio of captain Dané van Niekerk, fast bowler Shabnim Ismail and all-rounder Marizanne Kapp in their ranks. Meanwhile, Laura Wolvaardt plays for the Northern Superchargers, with Mignon du Preez a part of the set-up at the Trent Rockets.

The recently retired Lizelle Lee is set to represent the Manchester Originals.

The eight teams, including the Birmingham Phoenix, London Spirit, Southern Brave and Welsh Fire, will play six round-robin matches before the eliminator between the teams that finished second and third. The winners will then take on the log-leaders in a grand finale at Lord’s on Saturday, 03 September.

This year’s action will be held across eight venues, including Edgbaston, Old Trafford, Headingley, Lord’s, and grounds such as Sophia Gardens, Ageas Bowl, The Oval, and Trent Bridge.

In the tournament’s opening game, it was the Northern Superchargers up against the Oval Invincibles, which saw an intense battle between Wolvaardt and the experienced bowling attack of Ismail and van Niekerk, who played her first game since returning from injury. The Invincibles came out on top with a nine-wicket win despite Wolvaardt’s 49 (39).

On Saturday, 13 August at 11h00 local time (12h00 SAST), Lee’s Manchester Originals will square up against du Preez’ Trent Rockets as both teams go on the hunt for the coveted title.

CSA Director of Cricket, Enoch Nkwe commented: “It’s always wonderful to see our players taking part in tournaments around the world, where they get to broaden their horizons and expand their skills in the ever-evolving landscape of the game and women’s cricket, in particular.

“May all the aforementioned players have a fantastic campaign, and much-like during the 2021 edition, may they continue to make every South African proud with their stellar displays. We will be supporting you all the way.

CSA Chief Executive, Pholetsi Moseki said: “In the inaugural Hundred tournament, the Proteas Women had three players play a significant role in the showpiece match and throughout the competition, with Dané van Niekerk being crowned the player of the tournament.

“The bar has been set high for South Africans in the Hundred and every cricket fan will be following their every match, result and performance with much intrigue. On behalf of CSA, I would like to wish the players runs and wickets in abundance.”