Did Reyneke earn her first T20I call-up for South Africa against Pakistan?
Synopsis
In a significant development for South African women's cricket, former under-19 captain Kayla Reyneke receives her maiden T20I call-up as the team prepares for a series against Pakistan. Scheduled from February 10 to March 1, the series is critical for the team’s preparation for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
Key Takeaways
Kayla Reyneke receives her first T20I call-up.
South Africa's squad includes experienced players alongside new talent.
The T20I series against Pakistan is vital for World Cup preparations.
ODI squad features key changes.
The series is part of the team's strategy for upcoming tournaments.
Johannesburg, Jan 29 (NationPress) South Africa has bestowed a first T20I call-up upon the former under-19 captain Kayla Reyneke, as they unveiled their squads for the women's white-ball series against Pakistan, scheduled from February 10 to March 1.
At just 20 years old, Kayla plays for Western Province in domestic cricket and led South Africa to a runner-up finish in the 2025 Women’s U19 T20 World Cup. She joins a T20I lineup under the captaincy of Laura Wolvaardt, alongside seasoned players Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Dane van Niekerk, Sune Luus, and Ayabonga Khaka.
Returning players include wicketkeepers Sinalo Jafta and Karabo Meso, spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba, and allrounder Annerie Dercksen. Additionally, Tazmin Brits and Ayanda Hlubi are back after missing the series against Ireland.
The T20I series against Pakistan is pivotal for South Africa’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England. “The team is entering a significant phase in their T20 World Cup preparation, while also aiming to start positively in the new IWC cycle. These considerations were crucial in forming both teams for upcoming outcomes,” stated selector Clinton du Preez.
Following the T20I matches, a three-match ODI series will kick off the Proteas’ ICC Women’s Championship cycle, critical for securing points towards qualification for the 2029 Women’s ODI World Cup. The ODI squad sees four new additions: Lara Goodall, Faye Tunnicliffe, Nondumiso Shangase, and Tumi Sekhukhune, replacing Ayabonga, Masabata, Kayla, and Dane.
“We are thrilled to have two competitive squads selected as the team faces a demanding schedule, with tours to New Zealand and India also lined up before the T20 World Cup,” added coach Mandla Mashimbyi.
“The team is riding high on confidence after a strong finish in 2025, and now we need to build on that momentum. Each player must focus on maintaining and enhancing their performances from last year. This tour against Pakistan will be instrumental in executing our strategies and assessing what works well,” he concluded.
The Proteas will gather in Potchefstroom on February 5 ahead of the T20Is from February 10-16, then shift their attention to the ODIs on February 22 and 25, and the Black Day match in Durban on March 1.
South Africa T20I squad: 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, Kayla Reyneke, Chloé Tryon, and Dané van Niekerk.
South Africa ODI squad: Laura Wolvaardt (Captain), Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Chloé Tryon, and Faye Tunnicliffe.
Point of View
I believe this selection of Kayla Reyneke not only highlights the depth of talent in South African women's cricket, but it also sets a promising tone for the team's future. The upcoming series against Pakistan will provide valuable experience and insights as they prepare for major international tournaments.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kayla Reyneke?
Kayla Reyneke is a former under-19 cricket captain for South Africa, recently called up to the T20I squad.
When is the T20I series against Pakistan?
The T20I series against Pakistan is scheduled from February 10 to March 1, 2026.
Why is the series important for South Africa?
The series is crucial for building momentum and preparing for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
What changes were made in the ODI squad?
The ODI squad saw four new players, including Lara Goodall, Faye Tunnicliffe, Nondumiso Shangase, and Tumi Sekhukhune.
Where will the Proteas gather before the series?
The Proteas will assemble in Potchefstroom on February 5 ahead of the T20I matches.
