Semi-final will open up doors in South Africa – Tumi Sekhukhune
- Reaching the semi-finals in 2014 changed the face of women’s cricket in South Africa, says Sekhukhune
- The 21-year-old is looking to make the most of her second ICC Women’s T20 World Cup experience
- South Africa get their campaign underway against England on Sunday in Perth
Sekhukhune received her maiden World Cup call-up in 2018 after impressing on the pre-tournament warm-up tour but couldn’t steer her side to the semi-finals in the West Indies.
The Proteas have only advanced to the knockout stages once in its six editions in 2014 - back when now 21-year-old Sekhukhune was still breaking into the sport as a teenager.
But having seen how South African success opened more opportunities for her as a youngster, she’s determined to make sure it happens again.
“Women’s cricket is definitely moving in the right direction now,” said Sekhukhune. “Reaching the semi-finals opened up a lot of doors and opportunities for us in South Africa.
“Now youngsters in the junior teams are already contracted so if we do get to the semi-finals this year, and hopefully win the World Cup, we know the structures and facilities in South Africa will change again.
“For me, it’s a privilege to be in the team. We have world-class bowlers in Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp who have done so well in the Women’s Big Bash League.
“Everyone is very excited for the tournament but regardless of the result, one thing is for sure and that is we will be taking our team spirit to the tournament.”
The Proteas begin their campaign against England on Sunday off the back of a difficult run, losing to Australia in their latest warm-up match after succumbing to a 3-1 T20I series defeat to New Zealand.
But with the likes of Marizanne Kapp, Trisha Chetty and captain Dane van Niekerk once again nearing full fitness, Sekhukhune is confident the Proteas can turn their fortunes around.
“We still have the momentum, the confidence and the spirit from the ODI series,” she added.
“Everyone in the team is still in a good space and that is very nice.
“From a personal point of view, I have learnt a lot in the past two years coming into this World Cup.
“Now, with the knowledge I have and the teammates that I have helping me, I think I am ready.”