South Africa Dillon Du Preez Is Unsure About The Future Of The Team. The Proteas Women have undoubtedly emerged as a powerful force in international cricket, solidifying their position as one of the most consistent teams in the world. Under the interim guidance of Dillon du Preez, the Proteas Women reached the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 for the second consecutive time, an incredible feat that demonstrates both talent and determination. However, despite their valiant efforts, the Proteas fell short against a dominant New Zealand side, losing the final by 32 runs in Dubai.
The heartbreak of losing another final was visible in the eyes of Dillon du Preez, the interim coach of the South African women’s cricket team. In his own words, he expressed uncertainty about his future with the team, admitting, “The team needs a little bit more.” Yet, amid this uncertainty, he remains confident that the Proteas Women are heading in the right direction. As the team reflected on the match and the journey, du Preez explained how they will continue playing their bold, fearless brand of cricket, one that has reaped dividends, including their historic victory over Australia in the semifinal.
Dillon du Preez
Dillon du Preez took over the coaching reins in May 2024 when long-serving coach Hilton Moreeng stepped down after 11 years of service. Moreeng’s departure, just five months before the World Cup, meant that Cricket South Africa (CSA) had little time to find a replacement, ultimately promoting du Preez from assistant to interim head coach. It was a significant shift for du Preez, who admitted to being reluctant to step into the role. He was concerned about the high expectations and the short time available to prepare for such a monumental event.
Despite his hesitation, du Preez led the team with transparency and an open dialogue, keeping the players engaged. He was assisted by Baakier Abrahams, a full-time batting coach, and Paul Adams, who focused on the spin attack. This setup allowed du Preez to hone in on bowling strategies, ensuring that every department was finely tuned heading into the tournament. Du Preez reflected on this transitional period, stating, “We’ve been working on the team culture, and the most important thing for me is that the buy-in is there.”
South Africa Journey to the Final
South Africa’s path to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final was anything but straightforward. The Proteas came into the tournament after a series of challenging performances, having won only one of their seven previous series under du Preez. However, their resilience shone through, and the team reached the final for the second time in a row, beating the likes of the defending champions, Australia, in a memorable semifinal match.
In the semifinal, South Africa chased down Australia’s modest total of 135 runs within 17 overs, securing an eight-wicket win. It was a momentous occasion, as it marked the first time a South African senior team—men’s or women’s—had defeated Australia in a World Cup knockout match. This victory was a historic moment for South African cricket and set the stage for their final against New Zealand.
The Final Showdown
The grand finale of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 saw the Proteas face a well-rounded New Zealand side in Dubai. However, the Proteas’ aggressive batting approach, which had worked wonders in the semifinal, came unstuck in the final. Despite a promising start, South Africa’s batting line-up collapsed, and they were unable to chase down New Zealand’s total, falling short by 32 runs.
Du Preez admitted that while the team’s strategy was high-risk, it was one they believed in. “We always knew it’s a bit more high-risk, and it might be that in the beginning, we’ll pull off maybe two out of five wins. But eventually, with the way we prep and the way we think—the blueprint—we’ll become more used to it.” This brand of fearless cricket has been embraced by the team, and despite the loss in the final, there is a sense that South Africa’s approach is one that will bear fruit in the future.
Player Performances
Several players stood out for South Africa during the tournament, showcasing their skills and contributing to the team’s impressive campaign. Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits were instrumental at the top of the order, amassing over 300 runs between them. Both were named in the Tournament Team of the Year, with Wolvaardt captaining the side. Wolvaardt, the team captain, scored 223 runs, while Brits contributed 187 runs, both finishing as the top two run-scorers of the tournament.
All-rounder Marizanne Kapp, one of South Africa’s most experienced players, also had a significant impact with both bat and ball. Along with Chloe Tryon, she helped anchor the middle order, while Nadine de Klerk and Suné Luus chipped in with crucial performances at key moments. On the bowling front, Nonkululeko Mlaba and Ayabonga Khaka led the charge, with Mlaba’s consistent wicket-taking ability making her one of the standout bowlers of the tournament.
The Semi-final Triumph
The semifinal clash against Australia will go down as one of the most memorable matches in South African cricket history. Australia, six-time champions and heavy favorites to win the tournament, were stunned by a spirited South African side. Tazmin Brits and Laura Wolvaardt laid the foundation with a solid opening partnership, while Chloe Tryon and Marizanne Kapp steered the team to victory with aggressive strokes towards the end.
Australia’s defeat was their first in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup since their loss to India in the opening game of the 2020 edition. The Proteas’ win ended Australia’s remarkable run of 15 consecutive final appearances, cementing the South African team’s reputation as a rising powerhouse in women’s cricket.
The Homecoming
Following their incredible run to the final, the Proteas Women received a hero’s welcome at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Led by the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, the homecoming celebration was a reflection of the pride and support the team has garnered from fans across the country.
The arrival hall was filled with cheers and applause as supporters, busy travelers, and Cricket South Africa (CSA) sponsors gathered to honor the team. Despite their disappointment in the final, the players were celebrated as trailblazers, having created history and inspired a new generation of cricketers. The atmosphere was one of ubuntu—a sense of togetherness and shared accomplishment that resonated with everyone present.
Many players took to social media to express their gratitude for the overwhelming support they had received, with Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits vowing to come back stronger in future tournaments. Wolvaardt, in particular, was proud of the team’s consistency, stating, “There’s consistency there, and we are heading in the right direction.”
What Next for the Proteas Women?
Looking ahead, the Proteas Women will have little time to rest. Several key players, including Laura Wolvaardt, Nadine de Klerk, Marizanne Kapp, and Chloe Tryon, immediately departed for Australia to participate in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). The team will regroup later in the year as they prepare for a busy international schedule, which includes a home series against England in November-December 2024. Notably, this series will feature South Africa’s first home Test match in 22 years, a historic moment for women’s cricket in the country.
For Dillon du Preez, his future with the team remains uncertain. While he has been a crucial part of their success, du Preez has expressed doubts about whether he will continue in the role. He plans to have discussions with Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Enoch Nkwe, the Director of Cricket, to determine the best path forward. Given his limited experience at the highest level of coaching, du Preez remains humble about his contributions, stating that he is still developing his coaching style and learning from each experience.
Conclusion
The Proteas Women may have fallen short in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 final, but their journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From defeating the mighty Australians in the semifinal to showcasing fearless, high-risk cricket throughout the tournament, the team has captured the hearts of fans and established themselves as one of the top teams in world cricket.
