South Africa have been dominant throughout the series and, with the rubber already wrapped up, the hosts are expected to go all out as they look to close off the year in emphatic style on home soil.

With the bigger picture firmly in mind, the focus has shifted to continuing to build squad depth by giving fringe and less experienced players valuable game time. At the same time, the Proteas will be targeting a 3–0 clean sweep as they continue their push to establish themselves as a dominant force in women’s world cricket.

Faye Tunnicliffe - CSA

Seasoned wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta said that across both the T20 International and One-Day International series, plenty of boxes have been ticked, not least the ability to field different squads across formats for the first time in a while.

“It’s been a while since we’ve had two different squads,” said Jafta.

“So resting players like Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas and Nadine de Klerk, and then bringing in players like Miané Smit, Leah Jones and Faye Tunnicliffe, has been really positive.

“It shows we’re playing with a massive squad, and the players have really put their hands up - Smitty’s maiden 50 says it all.”

Jafta also reaffirmed head coach Mandla Mashimbyi’s vision of transforming the Proteas into the best team in the world, adding that the squad has fully bought into that mindset.

“When he came in, his message was simple - he wants to dominate world cricket,” Jafta added.

“No matter the opposition, the mindset is to go out there and dominate, especially with a World Cup coming up in 2026.

Miané Smit - CSA

“He’s been that voice in our heads, reminding us that we’re worth it, to believe it, and then go out there and enjoy ourselves.”

For the World Cup runners-up, Friday’s match is made even more special by the venue. The Proteas Women rarely get the opportunity to play at the iconic Wanderers, and Jafta said there could be no better place to sign off the year.

“The last time I played here was against the West Indies, and I remember thinking how amazing it was,” she recalled.

Leah Jones - CSA

“With the crowd, the embankment and having our families here to close off the year, it couldn’t be a better venue.

“We’re going to go out guns blazing and play our best brand of cricket.”

Play at the Bullring is scheduled to start at 13:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport