South Africa’s unbeaten run at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup is led by Kayla Reyneke

The South African U19 women’s cricket team, led by Kayla Reyneke, has put on a remarkable show in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, standing just one victory away from securing their first-ever title. They are now preparing for the ultimate showdown against defending champions India on Sunday, as reported by the ICC Cricket website.

Jemma Botha has been the backbone of the team’s batting lineup, scoring 89 runs across five matches, with a highest score of 37 and a striking rate exceeding 125. Meanwhile, Kayla Reyneke has shone with the ball, emerging as the team’s leading wicket-taker and the tournament’s third overall, having taken 10 wickets at an impressive average of 5.50, with her best figures standing at 3/2. Their dominant performances have ensured that the Proteas remain unbeaten in the competition.

Their campaign began with a 22-run victory over New Zealand in a rain-affected encounter. Despite the match being reduced to 11 overs, South Africa’s opening pair of Simone Lourens and Jemma Botha built a strong foundation, while Karabo Meso’s late fireworks helped them post 91/7. In response, New Zealand got off to a promising start, but the South African spinners, particularly Kayla Reyneke and Monalisa Legodi, put the brakes on their innings, restricting them to 69/5.

The team then showcased their ruthless edge against Samoa, dismantling them for just 16 runs in 9.1 overs. Nthabiseng Nini delivered an outstanding performance, taking three wickets for just four runs, with Fay Cowling, Seshnie Naidu, and Kayla Reyneke also chipping in with two wickets each. Chasing a modest target of 17, the Proteas wrapped up the match in just 1.4 overs.

Against Nigeria, South Africa adapted well to an eight-over contest, ensuring maximum carry-over points into the Super Six stage. Despite a slow start, they managed to set a revised target of 64 via the DLS method, with Simone Lourens leading the batting effort. The bowlers continued their dominance, with Seshnie Naidu’s two-wicket haul playing a crucial role in restricting Nigeria to 24/8, sealing a comfortable 41-run victory.

Their unbeaten run extended with a comprehensive win over Ireland, where their bowling unit once again stole the show. In a rain-affected match, Ireland was bundled out inside 10 overs, thanks to standout performances from Monalisa Legodi and Kayla Reyneke, who claimed four and three wickets, respectively. Chasing a mere 36, Simone Lourens and Kayla Reyneke confidently guided the team to victory.

A scheduled clash against the USA was unfortunately washed out due to rain, denying fans an intriguing battle. However, this no-result ensured South Africa’s undefeated progression to the knockout stage, where they faced Australia in the semi-final.

In their biggest test yet, the Proteas bowlers delivered a clinical performance against Australia, restricting them to 105/8. Ashleigh van Wyk led the attack with a four-wicket haul, while Nthabiseng Nini set the tone early by dismissing the dangerous Ines McKeon with the first ball of the match. The Proteas’ fielding was equally sharp, holding onto three crucial catches. Chasing the target, Jemma Botha and Kayla Reyneke guided the team home with 11 balls to spare, securing a five-wicket victory and sealing their place in the grand finale.

Now, with their unbeaten streak intact, the South African squad is ready for their toughest challenge yet as they go head-to-head with India in the title decider.