How Did Proteas Women's Players Climb T20I Rankings After Victory Against Ireland?
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Synopsis
The ICC Women’s T20I rankings have become a battleground for South African players following their impressive series against Ireland. Discover how Nonkululeko Mlaba and other Proteas players have made significant strides in their rankings, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the series.
Key Takeaways
- Nonkululeko Mlaba rises to sixth in T20I rankings.
- Proteas lead the series against Ireland 2-0.
- Nadine de Klerk and Chloe Tryon also improve their standings.
- Sune Luus showcases strong all-rounder skills.
- Laura Wolvaardt closes in on the batting ranking leader.
Dubai, Dec 9 (NationPress) The competition at the pinnacle of the ICC Women’s T20I rankings has intensified significantly, as numerous South African players have made impressive advances following a dominant start to their home series against Ireland.
One of the standout performers is left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba, who has seen her ranking soar as a result of her exceptional performances. In the first two matches, she took three wickets while conceding just over 11 runs each, allowing her to climb four positions to sixth among T20I bowlers. The 25-year-old now boasts 705 rating points, closing in on Australia’s Annabel Sutherland, who remains at the top with 736 rating points.
Mlaba’s ascent is part of a broader upward trend for the hosts, who have secured a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Nadine de Klerk has risen to 45th among bowlers following her impressive four-wicket haul across the two games, while Chloe Tryon has surged 12 spots to 49th.
Additionally, Tryon has made strides in the all-rounders’ rankings, moving up seven spots to just outside the top 10. Fellow all-rounder Sune Luus has also experienced notable progress, jumping nine places to 23rd after a remarkable performance with both bat and ball. Luus has amassed 118 runs in two matches, including a standout score of 81, and taken four wickets, boosting her to 41st in the batting rankings.
There has also been positive movement for returning and emerging talents. Former South Africa captain Dane van Niekerk has re-entered the T20I batting list at 82nd following her return to international cricket, while Ireland’s Leah Paul climbed nine places to 67th thanks to a couple of strong innings.
In the batting rankings, Australia’s Beth Mooney continues to hold the top position, but South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt is closing in, reducing the gap to just 50 points after her scores of 115 and 22* against Ireland.
As the series moves towards its final match, the rankings landscape is still shifting, and momentum is clearly with the Proteas.
Point of View
It's clear that the Proteas women are not just competing; they are thriving. Their recent performances against Ireland highlight the growth and potential of South African women's cricket on the global stage. With players like Mlaba leading the charge, the future looks bright for the team.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact did Nonkululeko Mlaba have on the rankings?
Mlaba's exceptional performance, taking three wickets in the first two matches, has propelled her to sixth place among T20I bowlers.
How are the Proteas performing in the series against Ireland?
The Proteas have secured a 2-0 lead in the three-match series, showcasing strong performances from several key players.
Who are the other South African players making moves in the rankings?
Nadine de Klerk and Chloe Tryon have also improved their rankings, with de Klerk moving to 45th and Tryon to 49th among bowlers.
What does Laura Wolvaardt's performance mean for her ranking?
Wolvaardt has narrowed the gap to the top of the batting rankings, now just 50 points behind the leader, Beth Mooney.
Is the series against Ireland impactful for the rankings?
Yes, the series is crucial as it can significantly influence the ICC Women’s T20I rankings for the involved players.
