The Proteas Women are set to usher in a new era of youthful energy with the inclusion of three debutants in the squad for the upcoming ODI Tri-Series.

Rising stars Karabo Meso, Miané Smit, and Seshnie Naidu are poised to make their 50-over international debuts when South Africa take on hosts Sri Lanka and India from 27 April to 11 May.

The trio join an experienced Proteas squad with the backing of team captain Laura Wolvaardt.

“Karabo, Seshnie and Miané have been very exciting additions to the squad. They’re very chatty, eager to learn, and it’s been exciting to see how quickly they’ve adapted,” said Wolvaardt.

“I think it gives a bit of healthy competition in the squad as well, to see some youngsters who have been performing get opportunities. It pushes everyone to work a bit harder and do a bit better.

“Really happy for them as well. Just the work that they’ve put in at provincial cricket and in school cricket, as well, to get this opportunity is very deserving

Versatile Free State Knights all-rounder Smit is known for her right-hand batting and off-spin.

“It’s such a privilege and honour, and I just enjoy being in this space so much,” said the  20-year-old. “It’s so competitive and I’m learning so much and starting to turn the nerves into excitement. I want to bring some energy and fun to the team, and if I get a chance to bat, I’m aiming to score a hundred.”

She also acknowledged the influence of senior teammates like Chloé Tryon, Suné Luus and Wolvaardt, who have guided her during the team’s pre-series camp in Pretoria.

After a successful youth international campaign with the SA U19 Women and an impressive showing at domestic and school levels this season, Meso returns to the national fold with a renewed outlook.

“I’m just being positive and playing a brand of cricket that I know. I think people say there are expectations, but I won’t put that in my head,” the wicketkeeper-batter shared.

Reflecting on her path through the SA U19 setup and the Pro Series with the Central Gauteng Lions, Meso said those experiences have prepared her for this next step.

“Reaching the U19 final made me realise there’s still a lot of cricket that’s going to be played. And also, there are winning moments and losing moments. I think that made me play the cricket that I’m playing now and enjoying every moment of school cricket and domestic cricket.”

Completing the youthful trio is KZN Dolphins leg-spinner Naidu, who is looking to convert hard work into a meaningful contribution at international level.

“This period has been about learning, not just about skill, but about working together as a team. Stepping onto the field wearing the badge is something I truly cherish. I would really enjoy playing alongside the best in the country and representing my country.”

Naidu, who has been part of national setups before, including the Proteas Women squad at the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE, said building relationships with senior players has made the transition easier.

“It’s been great chatting with the ladies, learning from everyone and getting to know them and cracking a few jokes now and again – I’ve been enjoying it.”

With the ODI Tri-Series approaching, Wolvaardt emphasised the importance of support and preparation for the debutants.

“International cricket takes another step up from domestic cricket, so maybe talking them through those things, talking through the plans that I may have as a captain if they’re bowling, and making sure we’re on the same page with that. Just making them feel as comfortable and as calm as they can be just before the actual game starts.”

Proteas Women ODI squad: Laura Wolvaardt (c, Titans), Anneke Bosch (Titans), Tazmin Brits (Lions), Nadine de Klerk (WP), Annerie Dercksen (Badgers), Sinalo Jafta (Lions), Ayabonga Khaka (Lions), Masabata Klaas (Titans), Suné Luus (Titans), *Karabo Meso (Lions), Nonkululeko Mlaba (Dolphins), Seshnie Naidu (Dolphins), Nondumiso Shangase (Dolphins), Miané Smit (Knights), Chloé Tryon (Lions).

Women’s ODI Tri-Series fixtures (all 6:30am SA time):

Sunday, 27 April : Sri Lanka vs India
Tuesday, 29 April: India vs South Africa
Friday, 2 May: Sri Lanka vs South Africa
Sunday, 4 May: Sri Lanka vs India
Wednesday, 7 May: South Africa vs India
Friday, 9 May: Sri Lanka vs South Africa
Sunday, 11 May: Final

Photo: Charle Lombard/Gallo Images