The former Free State cricketer has big boots to fill, especially with Kapp not touring Sri Lanka for the One–Day International Tri–Series in Colombo, which also features India. 

Still relatively new to the international scene, Dercksen–recently named the 2024 ICC Women’’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year – has only played in two Tests, five ODIs and 22 T20 Internationals. In contrast, Kapp has a wealth of experience, with four Tests, 149 ODIs and 113 T20Is to her name.

In her most recent match, Dercksen contributed with both bat and ball–scoring 30 runs and taking 1/40– in a closely contested 15–run loss to India on Tuesday.

Speaking to OFM Sport ahead of Friday’s ODI against hosts Sri Lanka, Dercksen admitted that while comparisons to Kapp are flattering, the veteran all-rounder remains someone she deeply admires and learns from.“Yeah, I’ve been compared to Kappie quite a bit – I’m not really sure why to be honest,” said Dercksen. 

Marizanne Kapp - Morgan Piek

“She’s in a league of her own and someone I really look up to. I see the comparison as a big honour, but it is still lvery early in my career–I think I’ve only got five ODI caps so far.“For now, I’m just looking to learn and take in as much as I can, soaking up all the knowledge and experience from the players around me. 

“That’s my goal at the moment– to contribute to the team in any way I can. I definitely don’t see myself on Kappie’s level just yet, but she’s been a fantastic mentor. Even after the last game, she gave me a few tips and words of encouragement. Hopefully in the next game, we can step it up another notch.”

Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt also spoke highly of Dercksen’s progress and potential, saying it’s been special to watch her grow.“She’s been awesome – it’s been great to see her develop,”Wolvaardt told OFM Sport earlier in the week.

“She came onto the scene as this strong, raw talent who just needed a bit of fine tuning. She’s put in loads of hard work with both the batting and bowling coaches to sort out her technique and bowling action, and we’re starting to see the results of that in matches.”

Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen - Morgan Piek

“She’s a really powerful player, and if she keeps working hard and refining her skills, she can definitely become a serious force in the future.”

The Proteas will take on Sri Lanka on Friday at 6:30 in the third match of the ODI Tri-Series in Colombo.

Morgan Piek OFM Sportlh