Africa-Press – South-Africa. It was a disappointing performance from the Proteas, who had a lot of expectations at this year’s Women’s Cricket World Cup in New Zealand.
South Africa suffered a 137-run semi-final defeat against defending champions England at Hagley Oval, falling short of a historic final against world number one Australia.
And for a few members of this stellar squad, and with the next 50-over World Cup scheduled only in England 2025, this could have been their last chance of World Cup glory.
Golden generation Proteas earn respect, pride of SA, but where to now?
At 33, Ismail has shown no signs of stopping, however.
The fiery Proteas fast bowler hasn’t been silent during this year’s campaign as Ismail finished with 14 wickets to sit second on the highest wicket-taker standings.
Ismail will be 36 years old at the 2025 World Cup, expected to be played in England and no one knows how long the Proteas’ will be blessed with her consistency.
“For me, it’s pretty simple. I mean, I feel in my cricketing career; I’m just peaking at the right time,” Ismail told reporters in Christchurch on Thursday.
“I know I’m 33 years old now, but I feel that my career is going in the right direction. So hopefully, when we get to England, we can get our revenge.
“Also in saying that, it’s not only about getting revenge but playing good cricket and smart cricket as well.”
Ismail was the star bowler for the Proteas in Thursday’s semi-final as she took three for 46 but said that the experienced players should’ve stepped up more.
“We won England before, but tonight just wasn’t our night. The older players in the team knew what we had to do tonight and we couldn’t get over the line,” said Ismail.
Wicketkeeper-batter Trisha Chetty is also 33 with batter Mignon du Preez and star all-rounder Marizanne Kapp at 32.
Luus, who played her 100th ODI alongside Lizelle Lee on Thursday, believes that this won’t be the last tournament for the experienced members of the squad.
“Yes, I think there are obviously lots of our players who are a little older, but I do not think they are done just yet,” said Luus.
“I think there is still a long road that lies ahead for them. I know that Shabnim here next to me is ready for another World Cup.
“So, I think it is obviously disappointing what happened tonight, but I do not think they are done yet.”
The Proteas women’s next scheduled assignment is a white-ball tour of Ireland between 2-17 June.
That’s followed by an all-format series against England from 27 June and 25 July.
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