Reyneke reflects on series win ahead of World Cup
The SA u19 Women have concluded their three-match T20 series against the USA u19 Women, winning the series 2-1 after a nine-wicket loss in the final match.
South Africa posted 155/5 in their allotted 20 overs, with solid contributions from Diedré van Rensburg (39) and Karabo Meso (37).
They were well supported by Diara Ramlakan (25), Fay Cowling (23*), and Jae-Leigh Filander (20*).
However, the USA’s Disha Dhingra made light work of the run chase, with an unbeaten century to secure a big win for the visitors.
South Africa’s captain, Kayla Reyneke, expressed mixed emotions but emphasised the positives.
She also acknowledged the importance of learning from the series in preparation for the global stage, as well as the camaraderie and teamwork that have become hallmarks of the squad.
“We have a number of elements we need to work on going into the World Cup. There ares still improvements to be made and we will take the wins and build on them,” Reyneke said.
“The team has been with each other for a few months, playing together and spending time together. We celebrate together, and we get along nicely both on and off the field. We are a solid unit,” she continued.
“Our goal is to inspire young girls, and for them to know that they have access to the sport. It sounds so cliché, but it’s so simple. Cricket is a hard sport, but if you love it, you’ll wake up every day wanting to work hard and excel in the game.”
With their sights firmly set on the ICC u19 Women’s T20 World Cup, the SA u19 Women’s team carries the hopes of a nation and has an opportunity to set an inspiring example for the next generation of cricketers.
South Africa u19 Women Squad: ICC u19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 (18 January – 02 February)
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 (North West Dragons), Mieke van Voorst (Eastern Storm), Ashleigh van Wyk (Eastern Storm), Chanel Venter (Titans).
