The Free State allrounder, Miané Smit, has been named in the Proteas squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

The 19-year-old Smit has been included as the traveling reserve for the World Cup, despite never having represented South Africa in senior international cricket.

The squad for the three-match T20 International series against Pakistan and the T20 World Cup was announced on Tuesday, and there were no surprises.

Smit has previously represented the country in the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup in South Africa, while of late she had been invited to numerous national training camps. While she will only play if there is an injury, this is a big opportunity for the youngster who was still at school last year.

The Conveyor of Selectors, Clinton du Preez, told OFM Sport that Smit would be up to the task if she is called upon.

“We back our decision around Miané, and as I’ve said, we've brought in some quality head leads with regard to the various skills-sets.

“The feedback that we’ve had and what we’ve seen over the past few camps as from an off-spinner what she brings and the package that she brings has been very impactful. Therefore, we back it.

“She is a young talent and she is someone that will definitely come to the fore. If anything does happen, she will be a positive replacement.”

South Africa’s first game at the T20 World Cup will be on 4 October against the West Indies in Dubai.

Proteas Women Squad – ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 (United Arab Emirates):

Laura Wolvaardt (Captain, Titans), Anneke Bosch (Titans), Tazmin Brits (Lions), Nadine de Klerk (Western Province), Annerie Dercksen (Garden Route Badgers), Mieke de Ridder (Garden Route Badgers), Ayanda Hlubi (Dolphins), Sinalo Jafta (Lions), Marizanne Kapp (Western Province), Ayabonga Khaka (Lions), Suné Luus (Titans), Nonkululeko Mlaba (Dolphins), Seshnie Naidu (Dolphins), Tumi Sekhukhune (Lions), Chloé Tryon (Lions)

Travelling Reserve: Miané Smit (Free State)  

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh