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Dané van Niekerk raised the hopes of many South African cricket fans when she recently decided to revoke her retirement from international cricket. The former captain’s return to the training camp in Durban ahead of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 created a wave of excitement, with many supporters believing this could be the moment of her grand comeback. After all, van Niekerk has been one of South Africa’s most decorated all-rounders, and the thought of her wearing the Proteas jersey again for a mega tournament in India and Sri Lanka was enough to stir emotions across the cricket community.
Her journey has been anything but smooth. From missing the 2022 World Cup due to an ankle injury to being dropped from the 2023 T20 World Cup over fitness standards, she has faced repeated setbacks. Her decision to retire from international cricket soon after left a void that fans struggled to come to terms with.
Proteas head coach spills beans on Dané van Niekerk’s chances to play World Cup 2025
However, reality struck when head coach Mandla Mashimbyi addressed the media. He confirmed that while Van Niekerk has indeed re-entered the broader player environment, she will not be part of the squad for the 2025 World Cup.
“She’s just part of the bigger or broader base of players that we’re trying to bring into our environment. She’s definitely not part of this World Cup. She’s not going,” Mashimbyi clarified while talking to reporters.
The coach, though, did not shut the door completely. He stressed that Van Niekerk remains in the long-term vision for the team and could feature in future series once she meets all the necessary requirements.
“She’s just part of the bigger or broader base of players that we’re trying to bring into our environment. She’s definitely not part of this World Cup. She’s not going,” added Mashimbyi.
Expectations high as SA yet to unveil squad
For fans, the news is bittersweet. While the hope of seeing Van Niekerk at the World Cup has been dashed, the possibility of her return in the near future still lingers. South Africa are yet to unveil their final squad for the marquee tournament, and anticipation is running high. With or without Van Niekerk, the Proteas women will aim to put up a strong performance, but her absence will surely be felt by many who dreamed of a fairytale return.
Also READ: Mithali Raj predicts the finalists of ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
