South Africa’s Women’s Cricket Team Seeks Redemption in Final ODI

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — South Africa‘s women’s cricket team aims to find their footing as they face Sri Lanka in their final match of the ODI tri-series on Friday at 6:30 a.m. local time. After losing their previous match against India by just 23 runs, the Proteas are determined to end the series on a high note.

Head coach Mandla Mashimbyi acknowledged his team’s shortcomings on the field and emphasized the importance of executing the basics. “We do so many good things, but we just don’t manage to cross the line,” Mashimbyi said. “If we’re looking for those 23 runs, we’ll probably find them in how we fielded and how we started with the bat.” Analyzing the results, he noted the team has shown potential, but execution remains crucial.

Wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta, who returned to the lineup after missing the first two matches, echoed Mashimbyi’s sentiments about fielding. “Our fielding needs a lot of work,” Jafta stated. She highlighted the need for a confident and aggressive approach to the game: “If you’re thinking you’ll probably miss this, then you probably are. We need to treat fielding like any other skill if we want to win games.” Jafta expressed optimism about the team’s ability to bounce back against Sri Lanka.

Despite missing out on the finals against India and Sri Lanka, the Proteas remain motivated. “This series has been one where you can be like ‘what is going on?’ because I haven’t seen us perform like this on the field,” she said. Jafta believes the journey is essential, and they will give their all in the final match.

With eyes set on improving their performance, Mashimbyi also praised the young players, such as debutant Miane Smit. “The youngsters that came in — they looked the part and it just shows that we’re in good hands,” he said.

Following the match against Sri Lanka, the Proteas will return home briefly before embarking on a three-match ODI series in the Caribbean, starting on June 11.