South Africa Names 17-Year-Old Karabo Meso to Women's ODI World Cup Squad in Surprise Pick

South Africa have named 17-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso in their 15-member squad for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, to be held later this month in India and Sri Lanka.

Meso, who made her senior international debut against Sri Lanka in March this year, has so far featured in two ODIs and five T20Is. Despite her limited experience, she has already shown promise at the highest level and now gets the chance to test herself on the biggest stage of all.

The teenager has previously played in two Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cups in 2023 and 2025 and will now take the step up to her maiden senior World Cup.

Wolvaardt to lead experienced squad

Laura Wolvaardt will captain the side, which also includes established names such as Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon and Ayabonga Khaka. Former skipper Dane van Niekerk, who recently reversed her decision to retire, was left out despite being part of the pre-tournament training camp.

The squad strikes a balance between youth and experience, with seasoned campaigners expected to guide Meso and other young players through the tournament. The selectors also retained several all-round options to provide flexibility in Indian and Sri Lankan conditions.

South Africa begin their World Cup campaign on 3 October against England in Guwahati. They will also face a high-profile clash against hosts India in Visakhapatnam on 9 October, a match likely to attract significant attention given India’s growing stature in the women’s game.

Before heading to the tournament, the Proteas will sharpen their preparations with a three-match ODI series against Pakistan in Lahore, scheduled for 16, 19 and 22 September.

Cricket South Africa officials said the series would serve as vital match practice and an opportunity to fine-tune combinations before the World Cup.

The inclusion of Meso is seen as an investment in the team’s future, but the immediate focus will be on making a strong push for the title. South Africa have reached the semi-finals of multiple global tournaments but are yet to claim a major trophy in women’s cricket.

Squad: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Marizanne Kapp, Tazmin Brits, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Anneke Bosch, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso (wk), Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase.