South Africa will take on hosts Sri Lanka and India in a One-Day International Tri-Series, with all matches scheduled to be played in Colombo. 

South Africa has the advantage of most of their star players being available for the tour, but there are also some exciting new additions to the squad. Among them is Free State Women’s Player of the Year, Miané Smit, who is set to make her long-awaited senior international debut.

Chloe Tryon. Phot: Morgan Piek

The tour marks a first for almost all the South African players, as they’ve never toured Sri Lanka before. While conditions will be different, they’re not far off from those in India, making this an ideal opportunity to adapt ahead of the World Cup.

Proteas head coach and former Eagles (now Knights) seam bowler, Mandla Mashimbyi, emphasised the importance of building cohesion and gaining valuable experience.

“In teams, we often fall into the trap of thinking we know each other, but knowing someone’s name and role is not the same as knowing their journey. When players understand what their teammates have overcome to get here, they’ll fight harder for one another,” he explained.

Suné Luus. Photo: Morgan Piek

This team-first approach is also reflected in how he balances youth and experience within the squad. With seasoned campaigners like Chloé Tryon, now in her 14th year in the national setup, alongside emerging talents like 17-year-old Karabo Meso, Mashimbyi sees opportunity, not risk.

“I’m a coach who’s passionate about youth because of what they bring. They arrive with no baggage, an open mind, and a desire to make a mark on the environment, which is refreshing,” Mashimbyi added.

“Youngsters bring energy and fearlessness. They want to learn and contribute. Experience, on the other hand, brings calm, structure, and a deep understanding of the game. 

‘When the time is right, we’ll sell the dream’

“It’s about marrying the two; when they work hand in hand, we get the best of both worlds.”

“Right now, it’s all about laying the foundation. When the time is right, we’ll sell the dream. But first, we build, and we build together.”

The Proteas will depart from Johannesburg on Tuesday and will face India in their opening match in Colombo on Tuesday, 29 April. The series kicks off on Sunday, with Sri Lanka taking on India.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh