Ex-South Africa captain makes retirement U-turn, in line for Women's World Cup 2025

Veteran South African cricketer Dane van Niekerk has reversed her retirement decision and made herself available for international selection once again. On Monday, August 25, the former Proteas Women’s skipper, who led the side in 50 ODIs and 30 T20Is, announced on social media her intention to fully recommit to South African cricket.

Her name also features in the training squad for the Women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in India from September 30 to November 2.

Van Niekerk last played international cricket in September 2021. She missed the 2022 ODI World Cup after suffering an ankle fracture that required a longer-than-expected recovery. Initially set to lead South Africa at that tournament, her comeback was further delayed when she failed to complete a mandatory two-kilometre run in under 9:30.

In March 2023, she officially announced her retirement from international cricket, only to overturn that decision two and a half years later.

“I'm thrilled to announce that I have decided to revoke my retirement from international cricket. The time away has reminded me just how much I have missed representing my country and I am fully committed to giving everything to once again have that opportunity,” Van Niekerk wrote in a statement on Instagram.

“I sincerely apologise to Cricket South Africa and the cricket family for how I handled my retirement, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to hopefully one day express my skills again on the international stage. I know the standards of the team and the women's game continue to rise, and I am ready to work hard to meet them.”

“I return with renewed energy, focus, and a deep sense of gratitude for this chance. Thank you to everyone who continues to support me on this journey,” Van Niekerk added.

South Africa yet to announce World Cup squad

Across one Test, 107 ODIs and 86 T20Is, Dane van Niekerk has amassed 4,074 runs, including one century and 19 half-centuries, while also claiming 204 wickets with seven four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls.

During her time away from international cricket, she featured for the Oval Invincibles and was part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad in the 2023 Women’s Premier League.

South Africa, yet to announce their World Cup squad, will begin their campaign on Friday, October 3, at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. Ahead of the announcement, the team will undergo a training camp in Durban this week.