South Africa’s women’s cricket team enters the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England as genuine title contenders, according to head coach Mandla Mashimbyi.
Mashimbyi said the squad has built strong momentum after recent series wins against Ireland, Pakistan and India. The team trained at Wits University before departing on 25 May for a camp in Arundel, England.
The Proteas have reached three consecutive World Cup finals since 2023 without claiming a trophy. Mashimbyi told players to focus on execution and self-belief, stating he is “already at Lord’s” where the final will be held.
Skipper Laura Wolvaardt arrives in peak form after scoring 330 runs in the recent India series. Returning fast bowler Shabnim Ismail and all-rounders Marizanne Kapp and Dané van Niekerk add experience to a squad blending youth and veterans.
South Africa faces Australia, Bangladesh, India, Netherlands and Pakistan in its pool. The team opens against Australia on 13 June after warm-up matches against Ireland and New Zealand.