The South Africa U19 Women are set to make history as they prepare to face India U19 Women in their first-ever ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup final at the Bayuemas Oval on Sunday (8.30am SAST).
This is only the second edition of the tournament, with the Junior Proteas narrowly missing out on a semi-final spot in the inaugural 2023 edition, held in South Africa, due to net run rate. Now, with seven players from that first campaign returning, the team is determined to seize their moment and excel on cricket’s biggest youth stage.
Under the leadership of head coach, Dinesha Devnarain, South Africa has enjoyed a dominant run, remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament.
Their opponents and defending champions, India, also enter the final without a loss, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
The team has also drawn strength from a powerful mantra shared among South African athletes: “They don’t know what we know, and they never will.” This belief has fuelled their resilience and determination throughout their campaign.
Speaking ahead of the final, SA captain, Kayla Reyneke, reflected on the team’s journey, mindset and approach to the final match.
"The mood in the camp is very positive. Of course, there are a few nerves, it’s normal, it is a final; but we see it as just another game, another hurdle to overcome. The team is ready to go.
"We always emphasise discipline and consistency, both on and off the field. It’s about focusing on the small things that drive us as a team. We also avoid looking too far ahead, taking it one game at a time,” said Reyneke.
“One key takeaway from the semifinal is the importance of staying calm under pressure. Cricket is a team sport and having each other’s backs along with the incredible support from our coaches and management gives us confidence.
"We are fully prepared and excited to take on the challenge. As I always say, we play the player, not the name. Our practice sessions have been focused, technical and intense, ensuring we’re in the best possible shape for the final," Reyneke concluded.
South Africa U19 Women Squad
Kayla Reyneke (Captain, Western Province), Jemma Botha (Western Province), Fay Cowling (Lions), Jae-Leigh Filander (Western Province), Mona-Lisa Legodi (Titans), Simoné Lourens (Titans), Karabo Meso (Lions), Seshnie Naidu (Dolphins), Nthabiseng Nini (Dragons), Luyanda Nzuza (Free State), Diara Ramlakan (Lions), Diedré van Rensburg (Dragons), Mieke van Voorst (Storm), Ashleigh van Wyk (Storm), Chanel Venter (Titans).
Non-travelling Reserves
Lethabo Bidli (Lions), Keamogetswe Chuene (Lions), Jenna-Lee Lubbe (Lions), Jané Verhage (Titans), Sinelethu Yaso (Western Province).
Management
Dinesha Devnarain (Head Coach), Marcia Letsoalo (Team Manager), PJ Jansen (Batting Coach), Angelique Taai (Bowling Coach), Trisha Chetty (Fielding Coach), Adele van Eck (High-Performance Analyst), Dr Dhavina Naidoo (Team Doctor), Esther Bhengu (Physiotherapist), Stacey-Lee Hercules (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Terrence Adonis (Educator), Alungile Nyakambi (Media Specialist).
SA U19 Women Group Fixtures
Saturday, 18 January @ 8.30am SAST - 1st Match: New Zealand v South Africa (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak) – South Africa won by 22 runs (DLS Method).
Monday, 20 January @ 8.30am SAST - 2nd Match: South Africa v Samoa (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak) – South Africa won by 10 wickets.
Wednesday, 22 January @ 8.30am SAST - 3rd Match: South Africa v Nigeria (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak) – South Africa won by 41 runs (DLS Method).
Super Six Stage
Saturday @ 8.30am SAST- South Africa v Ireland (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak) – South Africa won by seven wickets.
Tuesday @ 4.30am SAST- South Africa v USA (Borneo Cricket Ground, Sarawak) – Match abandoned.
Semi-finals
Friday @ 4.30am SAST - South Africa v Australia (Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur) – South Africa won by five wickets
Friday @ 8.30am SAST - India v England (Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur) – India won by nine wickets
Final
Sunday @ 8.30am SAST - South Africa v India (Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur)
Comments