Former South African cricket captain Dane van Niekerk has made headlines by reversing her international retirement and being named in the World Cup training group. This move comes after her retirement in March 2023, following her exclusion from the T20 World Cup squad due to fitness criteria.

Van Niekerk, 32, expressed her deep sense of gratitude and renewed energy for the opportunity to represent her country once again. She stated, "Time away has reminded me how much I have missed representing my country."

Key Highlights:

• Retirement Reversal: Van Niekerk retired in March 2023 after being left out of the T20 World Cup squad for failing to meet fitness standards.
• Domestic Play: Despite her international retirement, she continued to play domestically.
• World Cup Aspirations: She aims to feature in the 50-over World Cup in India, starting on September 30.
• Injury and Recovery: After an ankle injury in early 2022, she attempted a comeback for the home World Cup in February 2023 but was hindered by fitness requirements.

Van Niekerk apologized for her handling of the retirement and expressed her readiness to meet the rising standards of the team and the women's game. She said, "I return with renewed energy, focus, and a deep sense of gratitude for this chance."

Training Squad:

South Africa has named 20 players in their World Cup training squad, excluding captain Laura Wolvaardt and all-rounders Chloe Tryon and Marizanne Kapp, who are currently playing in The Hundred. The final squad will be cut to 15 for the World Cup.

Van Niekerk's return is a significant boost for South Africa as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup, and her experience and skills will be invaluable to the team.