Dercksen headlines Proteas Women's central contract list for 2025-26
A 15-player list has been announced by the Proteas, with a major focus on the marquee Women’s ICC event later in the year.
Cricket South Africa have confirmed the Proteas Women’s contracted squad for the 2025/26 season, with promising all-rounder and ICC Emerging Women’s Player of the Year 2024 Annerie Dercksen earning her maiden national contract.
The all-rounder replaces Lara Goodall and Delmi Tucker in the 15-player roster.
WATCH: Annerie Dercksen wins the ICC Emerging Women’s Player of the Year 2024
Speaking on the squad, CSA Executive, National Teams and High Performance, Enoch Nkwe appreciated the all-rounder's contribution to the team and her new role in the side.
“It’s a momentous occasion for Annerie Dercksen, whose performances have been impressive as she cemented her spot in the team, earning a well-deserved first national contract," Nkwe said.
Proteas Women’s Contracted Squad 2025/26:
Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon, Laura Wolvaardt
Led by captain Laura Wolvaardt and head coach Mandla Mashimbyi, the Proteas Women are gearing up for a crucial year in international cricket, with major focus on the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, set to be held in India later this year.
WATCH: Every Laura Wolvaardt boundary from the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024
ICC No.1 ranked batter in the Women's ODI category, Wolvaardt was on top of her game in 2024, racking up 697 runs across formats in 12 innings at an astonishing 87.12 average, which got her a place in the nominees for the ICC Women's ODI Cricketer of the Year 2024.
The batter was the top scorer at the Women's T20 World Cup last year with 232 runs, followed by Tazmin Brits with 187 runs, with the duo leading with the bat at the top for the Proteas.
Left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba also shone at the event, claiming 12 wickets to her name as the Proteas made their way to the summit clash.
Enoch Nkwe further spoke about South Africa’s aim for the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 in India.
“We are proud to announce the Proteas Women’s contracted squad for the 2025/26 season, a group that embodies the depth, talent, and potential of women’s cricket in South Africa.
“As we prepare for a pivotal year with the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India, this squad offers the right balance of experience and youthful energy. We believe this group is well-equipped to compete at the highest level and continue making the country proud.”
The Proteas finished runners-up in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the UAE and the subsequent ICC Women’s U19 World Cup in Malaysia, losing out to eventual winners New Zealand and India respectively.