AS a member of the Dolphins Women’s team, Durban North resident Nicole de Klerk hopes to one day be called up to the Proteas Women’s squad.
In 2021, she represented the South African Emerging Women’s team against Thailand in a 50-over and T20 game series at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom.
Now she hopes the elevation of women’s cricket brings more opportunities, not only for her, but for other women cricketers too.
The top-order batter is now a part of history as Cricket South Africa (CSA) launched its first Professional Domestic Women’s League earlier this year.
The League is set to redefine the future of women’s cricket in South Africa, bringing together the finest domestic talent in the country, with the aim of elevating the game to new heights while providing equitable opportunities for women cricketers.
“Women’s cricket has really been on the rise in the last few years, and to be able to play in a professional setting is something I could only dream of. My journey started with my grandfather and backyard cricket, but it wasn’t until primary school that I knew my path in life was going to revolve around cricket. My aspiration has always been to represent my country, but I struggled a little with injuries in the last year. However, I’m on the mend, and I want to go for that dream. I will keep fighting for as long and as far as I can to make my dream a reality,” she said.
We also spoke to the 24-year-old about her thoughts on the Cricket World Cup.
When did cricket start for you?
“It started with my grandfather, Cecil Squire. He loved cricket, and my earliest memories were of playing cricket in the backyard with him and the cousins. I would love it when there were Test Matches on because we’d use the lunch break and drinks break to have a game outside. There’s nothing like tennis-ball cricket and the rivalries it creates.”
Who is your cricketing idol?
“It would have to be Australia’s Ellyse Perry. She is an incredible player and someone I really look up to. Because Australian women’s cricket was televised, it really allowed me to dream big. Locally, I would emulate Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, who is really breaking through the scene. I aspire to be just like her and how she’s improved her game.”
What is your proudest moment in your career?
“My proudest moment was making my Dolphins Women’s debut in Division 1. This was a few years before the professional league was even considered. It was my debut and getting to share the field with KZN cricket legends like Trish Chetty and Denisha Devnarain was amazing.”
What is your favourite Cricket World Cup memory?
“I think for me it would be the Proteas opening game against Sri Lanka at this year’s World Cup. The trio of centuries, including the fastest-ever in a World Cup by Aiden Markram was just awesome to watch. We also set the highest-ever total (428 for 5) in a World Cup game. There were also 107 boundaries scored across both innings, which is the most ever in a World Cup game. To watch all the records tumble in that game was phenomenal.”
Who is the player to watch out for at the World Cup?
“Aidan Markram all the way. My grandfather was a huge advocate for him when he captained the U19 side. I always trust my grandfather’s gut there. I also like him because he is such a humble and explosive player. He has really created his own space. At one point, people were comparing him to AB de Villiers but he has made the game his own. I also admire the way he has gone about his game, and he is a great team player.”
Who do you think will win the World Cup?
“I’m always going to back the Proteas. I hope we don’t peak too soon, but I think our two performances have been so impressive. I’m going to go loud and proud and say South Africa.”
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