Cape Town, Dec 2 (NationPress) – The seasoned all-rounder from South Africa, Dane van Niekerk, is poised to make her much-anticipated comeback to international cricket, marking two years since her last match with the Proteas. She believes that the upcoming series against Ireland will serve as a critical opportunity to gauge her current standing.

The 32-year-old athlete, who briefly stepped away from international cricket in 2023 before deciding to return earlier this year, is set to rejoin the national squad for a three-match T20I series against Ireland. With over 190 international appearances in both ODIs and T20Is, van Niekerk is driven by a deeply personal desire to prove herself again.

"That’s my primary objective – to demonstrate to myself that I can accomplish the goals I've set. I believe that if I achieve these targets, I will contribute positively to the team, ideally in winning situations. That's what it’s all about for me," van Niekerk shared during a pre-tour camp.

The former captain of South Africa expressed that her return feels almost unreal after thinking her international career was concluded. "I never expected this day would arrive. It holds immense significance for me. Receiving my national kit again felt like a completely new experience. I also got a new helmet. I felt like a child. That's the joy of being back here," she added.

Her impressive domestic performances for Western Province this season have been instrumental in her return to the national team. Van Niekerk recorded four half-centuries in her last seven innings across various formats, showcasing her form and readiness.

She rejoins a South African team that has significantly evolved in her absence, a side that has reached the finals of the last three ICC women’s tournaments and continues to elevate its performance standards. "A lot has transformed since I was a part of the team, and all for the better. The intensity has skyrocketed," she noted.

While acknowledging the team's impressive progress, van Niekerk is eager to bring her experience and cricketing wisdom to the table.

"My aim is to contribute in any way possible, whether through knowledge, tactics, or sharing cricketing experiences. If I can make a positive impact, whether with the bat or in the field, I'd be satisfied," she remarked.

Though she missed South Africa's historic World Cup final in India, van Niekerk has supported the team from a distance. "I've been very vocal about how thrilled I am for their achievements. Whether from the sidelines, in the commentary box, or simply as a supportive spouse [to Marizanne Kapp], it’s heartening to witness their success," she said.

She admitted to feeling mixed emotions during the occasion, stating, "Of course, I wish I could have been there. Anyone, even those who don’t play cricket, would have loved the chance to walk out in India against India in a World Cup final. That moment is electric, and it’s the kind of experience you live for. I am incredibly proud."

Van Niekerk believes the team is on the verge of securing a long-awaited world title. "I feel this team deserves a World Cup. Whether I’m part of it or not is irrelevant. This group of players is due for lifting the Cup," she asserted.

South Africa will kick off the T20I series against Ireland at Newlands in Cape Town this Friday, followed by matches in Paarl on Sunday and Benoni next Wednesday as van Niekerk embarks on this new chapter of her international journey.