The T20 International will be the first meeting between the two teams since they last met during the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. 

While the English won that match by seven wickets, South Africa went on to play in a second consecutive T20 World Cup final, and while the disappointment of losing to New Zealand is still fresh, the Proteas are confident and upbeat.

The Proteas are expected to have a full squad of players to select from, albeit, this week some were still competing in the Women’s Big Bash League in Australia. They include the captain Laura Wolvaardt and the valuable allrounder, Nadine de Klerk. Marizanne Kapp is still Down Under, however, she is not playing in the series.

The experienced allrounder, Suné Luus, who recently regained her confidence with the ball, said after the T20 World Cup final disappointment there was time to reflect. They are, however, feeling rejuvenated and excited for the series, as well as seeing a few new faces in action.

“It was a great World Cup for us and obviously being able to reach back-to-back finals is something special,” said Luus.

Suné Luus. South Africa and England will play in a standalone Test that will be played in Bloemfontein. Photo: Cricinfo

“We’ve had a bit of time off, you know, just to reflect on everything and obviously we can’t change the past. In the last couple of weeks, we’ve just been back grinding hard. Obviously, there's going to be a tough series, England is a very good side. So, we have just been preparing for the series and looking forward to it.

“It’s always exciting having new players coming into the squad. I think when you first start, you always have something to prove and you want to have a good performance under your belt. So, I think, you know, there’s lots of energy there. They have good vibes around them. They love being here and they love playing cricket, so it’s very exciting to see them in the squad and just excited to see what they’re going to bring to the field.”

Luus added that by Sunday they should have a full complement of players in the squad with some of their big names returning from Australia.

Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt scored 42 against England at the T20 World Cup in Sharjah. Photo: Cricinfo

“So far, I know all the Big Bash players are eligible for the series. I haven’t seen the team yet. Obviously, we’re only playing on Sunday, so we’ll see what the side is. But as far as I know, everyone is eligible and most girls are here already.

“England will bring their A-game – they always play good cricket. So, yeah, it’s always going to be a tough challenge playing against England. But luckily, it’s in South Africa, you know, we know the conditions. We have a strong side as well.”

Sunday’s 1st T20 International between South Africa and the Lionesses at Buffalo Park in East London is scheduled to get underway at 14:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg