Cricket
Proteas to hit reset button in Bloemfontein Test─── MORGAN PIEK 08:11 Fri, 13 Dec 2024
The Proteas Women aim to fine-tune their consistency as they take on England in a standalone Test at Bloemfontein this weekend, which will also conclude the historic multi-format tour.
The Test in the Free State will be the first women’s game played on South African soil in 22 years, and for the Proteas, it will be an experience none of the players are used to. There have long been calls for more red-ball cricket to be played in the women’s game, and the historic match is certainly a step in the right direction.
On Wednesday night, England secured a six-wicket win over South Africa according to the DLS method in Potchefstroom, clinching the ODI series 2-1. Despite the setback, veteran all-rounder Marizanne Kapp remains focused on the bigger picture, urging her team to reset and shift their attention to the Test match.
“It’s a different format, and we know what to expect from England,” Kapp remarked. “This will be our second Test against them in recent years. You can’t dwell on the ODIs now – you have to prepare for the Test ahead.”
Kapp, who has played in three Tests, has an impressive record with the bat in particular with 317 runs in six innings at average of 63.40.
Marizanne Kapp celebrates her knock of 74 in Chennai. Photo: Cricinfo
Kapp highlighted the importance of bringing their A-game to Bloemfontein. “We know we need to show up and deliver.
“I feel like we played a solid test in India, so we’ll take a lot of confidence from that experience. The key will be staying in the fight longer as we head into this match.”
The Proteas also head into the Test under new coach Mandla Mashimbyi, a former Eagles (Knights) seamer, who will lead the team in his first match in charge. Kapp is optimistic about Mashimbyi’s leadership style, describing him as a direct and transformative presence.
‘A little push can go a long way’
“What I’ve seen so far, I really like,” Kapp said. “He’s not afraid to make changes, which is exactly what we need to move forward.”
She continued, “He’s straightforward and honest, and I’ve always felt that sometimes there’s too much leniency when it comes to players, performances, and accountability. A little push can go a long way, and I think he’s the right person to deliver that. Plus, he brings a wealth of knowledge.”
The first ball at the Mangaung Oval is set to be bowled at 10:00 on Sunday morning.
