South Africa Coach Confirms Dane van Niekerk Excluded From Women's World Cup Squad

South Africa's former captain Dane van Niekerk will not be part of the squad for the upcoming 2025 Women's Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka despite reversing her international retirement and joining the pre-tournament training camp. Coach Mandla Mashimbyi confirmed that van Niekerk, who struggled to meet Cricket South Africa's fitness standards after an ankle injury and retirement in 2023, must still work to meet all selection criteria before being considered for future series. While not selected for the final fifteen, her inclusion in the training camp aimed to expose her to current team expectations and prepare her for potential future impact. Mashimbyi emphasized that van Niekerk, despite her experience and past leadership, must now earn her place like any other player. Her presence is also seen as valuable off the field to mentor younger players. South Africa's preparations include a camp to simulate subcontinental conditions and a tour of Pakistan before the World Cup.