Free State all-rounder Miané Smit has once again cracked the nod and could potentially make her T20 International debut in the Caribbean. She impressed on debut, scoring 39 runs against India in the One-Day Internationals, and followed that up by claiming her first wicket against Sri Lanka.

Veteran Kapp recently completed a conditioning block with the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India in mind, and the experience she brings something that was notably missing in Colombo.

South Africa will face the West Indies in three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three T20 Internationals (T20Is).

Coach Mandla Mashimbyi told OFM Sport that the value of Kapp’s experience in the squad cannot be underestimated. “You can never underestimate the value of an experienced player in a squad. But based on the plans we had for Marizanne – in terms of a fitness block and making sure that, come World Cup time, she’s in peak condition – that was our priority at this stage.

Marizanne Kapp. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Having her back in the squad is something I’m really looking forward to. Seeing how she integrates into the team environment again and brings that experience will be vital for us.”

There’s also no doubt that all-rounder Annerie Dercksen (24), who stepped up in Kapp’s absence, was South Africa’s standout performer in Sri Lanka. In four innings with the bat, she scored 276 runs at an impressive average of 92, although her bowling contributions were less notable.

Mashimbyi added that he believes the former Free State cricketer has what it takes to become one of the world’s top all-rounders.

Annerie Dercksen. Photo: Morgan Piek

“She is a huge talent,” said Mashimbyi. “She’s a lovely girl who listens and is always eager to learn. She puts in the work. People don’t realise – this is a girl who drives from Beaufort West to Bloemfontein just to work on her bowling, and then drives to Gqeberha to train with our batting coach.

“She’s willing to sacrifice everything to improve. So I’m not surprised by the results we’re seeing from her. She’s really come of age, and for her to perform like this at such a young age speaks volumes about the effort she’s putting in behind the scenes.

“I’m really, really happy for her. I’m telling you now – she’ll definitely be one of the best all-rounders in the world in the near future.”

The first ODI will be played on 11 June in Barbados.

Proteas squad for West Indies - Laura Wolvaardt (Captain), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miané Smit, and Chloé Tryon

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg