The Proteas Women welcome a familiar figure back into the fold this week as Dané van Niekerk returns to the national squad ahead of the T20I series against Ireland, starting on Friday.
It marks the former captain’s first involvement in an international matchday group in more than four years, completing a journey she once believed was out of reach.
Van Niekerk spoke openly about the emotions, the work, and the purpose behind her comeback.
“Yeah, look, it’s obviously… I keep joking, so who would have thought? If you asked me, probably six months ago, if I would be here, I’d probably say no. Just with everything that happened… I didn’t think the day would come. So obviously it means a lot, it means the world, that’s what I said to coach and Clinton.”
Even small details of her return felt new again. “I got my clothes again, and I felt like it was my clothes for the first time. I got a new helmet as well – I was like a child. It’s good to be back around the team, and hopefully I can contribute to the team in any shape or form.”
Her path back began in domestic cricket, rooted not in ambition but in service. “Initially, the goal was to give back and really assist the young players for a season. I made it quite clear to WP that I don’t want to do it for no reason – I’m taking somebody’s spot here. Contrary to what people think, I’m not doing it for the money.”
A single conversation shifted her mindset. “Fast forward earlier this year, I got a call from this big guy, big personality. That made me sign again for WP because then there was a purpose behind it. Even then I wasn’t sure – with the emotions and everything, I wasn’t cautious. But my why got a lot bigger. I just needed some time to process everything, and still processing some stuff.”
As her clarity grew, so did her drive. “The why was very clear to me, and that’s when the real work started, and it’s still continuing. From where I was to where I am now, I’m pretty damn proud. There’s still a lot of hard work, but I’m proud of the strides I’ve made.”
With the possibility of playing an international match for the first time since 2021, van Niekerk said her goals are personal rather than performative. “It’s scary to think it’s four years. It’s easy to say I want to prove a point and show people I’m still Dane van Niekerk, but the main thing for me is to prove something to myself. If I tick my own boxes, I’ll contribute to the team… hopefully in winning situations.”
Watching South Africa reach three World Cup finals while she was sidelined stirred both pride and longing. “I’ve been very vocal about how chuffed I am for the team and their successes. Whether I was in the comms box or as a wife or a friend, it was always nice to see. Obviously, there’s always that ‘I wish I was there’ because who wouldn’t? Any person would love to walk out in India against India in a World Cup final. This team is due a World Cup. Whether I’m part of it or not doesn’t matter – this group is due to lift the cup.”
Returning to a more intense, evolved squad, she said her contribution may come in many forms. “A lot of things have changed since I was part of the team, for the good. The intensity is through the roof… hands are sore today. For me, contributing knowledge, tactics, chats about cricket and experiences – that’s sometimes invaluable. I’ve been blessed to play in many leagues and finals. If I can contribute with the bat, in the field, or fingers crossed with the ball, I’ll be happy.”
With Ireland up first and major tournaments on the horizon, van Niekerk stressed the importance of the upcoming matches. “Ireland has made a lot of strides, and so have many teams. It’s no more where you rock up and assume you’re going to walk over a team. They’ve got talented players and match winners within their side.”
And with the Women’s T20 World Cup in England less than a year away, the focus is already sharp. “It’s going to be a good challenge, a good run-out leading into a very important World Cup. Making sure combinations are ready, confidence is up. Mandla is a man on a mission – he’s not leaving any stone unturned. Every single game is going to be crucial for us executing those plans.”