Table of Contents
Cricket South Africa has unveiled its 15-member squad for the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, blending seasoned players with new faces. Excitement surrounds the inclusion of 17-year-old Karabo Meso, the young wicketkeeper-batter whose selection marks a bold move and highlights the team’s vision for new talent.
Early life and domestic rise
Born on September 18, 2007, Karabo began her cricketing journey in South Africa, where her talent was quickly recognized. She honed her skills at the domestic level, becoming a key member of the Central Gauteng team. Her first professional appearances came with her List A debut in 2021, and she followed that up with her Twenty20 debut the following year. These early performances established her as a promising young talent ready for the next step in her career.
Playing style and impact
Karabo is a dynamic cricketer known for her dual role as a right-handed batter and a sharp wicket-keeper. Behind the stumps, she has a reputation for being an effective and reliable player, consistently contributing to her team’s defensive efforts. Her talent with the gloves was particularly highlighted during the 2023 African Games, where she led all wicket-keepers in total dismissals. In addition to her fielding skills, she provides a dependable presence in the batting lineup.
Career progression and achievements
Meso’s strong domestic performances caught the attention of national selectors, leading to her being named in the South Africa Under-19 squad for the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2023. Following her successful outing at the tournament, she was also selected for the South Africa Emerging team. Her consistent development led to a call-up to the senior national team, where she made her T20I debut in March 2024 against Sri Lanka. Soon after, she was also included in the ODI squad, cementing her position as one of the most exciting young prospects in South African cricket.
Also READ: New Zealand announces appointment of a new head coach ahead of the Women’s World Cup 2025
Future prospects
Though still in her teens, Meso’s composure, agile glovework, and handy lower-order batting have earmarked her as an important fixture in South Africa’s future plans. With every outing, she cements her reputation as one of the brightest young stars in South African women’s cricket, poised to become a mainstay in the team’s lineup for years ahead.
Also READ: Meg Lanning shares roadmap for India to excel in Women’s World Cup 2025
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
