Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Keanan Hemmonsbey
Published on 2024-04-18 12:10:53
Laura Wolvaardt has solidified her status as the best batter to ever play for the Proteas women’s team with her remarkable performances on the field. Her impeccable timing, elegant shot selection, and grace at the crease have always been apparent, but now she has the numbers to back up her claim.
Wolvaardt recently became the highest run-scorer in One Day International (ODI) cricket for South Africa, surpassing former captain Mignon du Preez’s tally of 3,760 runs. What sets Wolvaardt apart is that she achieved this feat in 48 fewer innings than du Preez. At just 24 years old, Wolvaardt has a promising future ahead of her with at least eight more years of international cricket to further extend her record.
In a recent ODI series against Sri Lanka that ended in a stalemate, Wolvaardt shone brightly and was awarded the Player of the Series for her outstanding performance. She scored a phenomenal 335 runs in just three innings, including an unbeaten 184 off 147 deliveries in the final match, where she helped the team reach a total of 301 runs for the loss of five wickets.
Despite her individual brilliance, Wolvaardt, who was appointed captain at the beginning of the season, expressed her disappointment with the team’s loss in the match against Sri Lanka. She acknowledged the challenges of captaincy, particularly when strategies and execution don’t quite align with the desired outcome. Wolvaardt emphasized her continuous learning process and the need to improve the team’s ability to defend against strong opposition.
Wolvaardt’s exceptional form in the recent series is a stark contrast to her struggles earlier in the year in Australia, where she only managed to pass 50 once in eight innings. Reflecting on her performance, Wolvaardt credited her consistency to minor adjustments and a change in luck, highlighting the unpredictable nature of cricket.
During her record-breaking innings of 184 runs, Wolvaardt showcased her talent and composure at the crease, eventually surpassing Johmari Logtenberg’s previous record for the highest score in ODI cricket for South Africa. Despite limited support from her teammates, Wolvaardt’s determination and skill propelled her to an unforgettable performance, earning her accolades and recognition as a standout player.
With Wolvaardt leading the way, the Proteas women’s team has a promising future ahead. Her exemplary skills, leadership, and record-breaking achievements make her a pivotal player for South Africa, and a beacon of hope for the team’s ambitions of becoming a dominant force in international women’s cricket. As Wolvaardt continues to excel on the field, her influence and impact on the team are set to grow, paving the way for a new era of success and excellence.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
