Tumi and Chloe Make a Comeback in SA Squad for Historic Test Against England
Click to start listening
Johannesburg, December 10 (NationPress) Cricket South Africa (CSA) has unveiled the women’s team roster for their significant one-off Test against England, taking place at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein from December 15 to 18.
The 15-player lineup includes one modification from the squad currently engaged in the ICC Women’s Championship ODI series against England. Tumi Sekhukhune steps in to replace Ayabonga Khaka, who has not been included in the longer-format roster.
The team also sees the return of the Test-experienced trio of Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, and Chloe Tryon, who were absent from the previous Test against India earlier this year.
South Africa will confront England in what marks the eighth four-day match between the two teams, representing South Africa’s first home Test since March 2002. England has secured victory in two of the previous seven encounters, while the other five, including the most recent match in June 2022 in Taunton, concluded in draws.
"I’m thrilled. This will significantly benefit the ladies in grasping their game and understanding what’s required in the longer format. Having the chance to engage in red-ball cricket is beneficial for our cricket, and I’m eager to see what they can accomplish," said head coach Mandla Mashimbyi.
"The criteria are straightforward for me; it’s about how much time you are prepared to invest in the crease as a batter and how patient you are as a bowler. We will discuss these aspects, and if we observe them manifesting during the game, it will be a considerable advantage for us," he added.
Proteas Women Convenor of Selectors, Clinton du Preez, stated, "We are excited to have another Test match opportunity following the white-ball series. It’s crucial to maintain an experienced core to stay competitive and aim for a favorable outcome.
"We assessed the previous Test squad and made revisions to enhance team balance. Lara contributes versatility as a left-handed batsman, Hlubi offers variation as an impactful seam bowler, and Tumi has consistently delivered strong performances, bringing stability to our bowling unit alongside our other bowlers.
South Africa Test squad: Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Mieke de Ridder, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloe Tryon.
