'It's very special for us' – South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt looking forward to historic T20I series vs Zimbabwe

South Africa will travel to Bulawayo for a historic five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, marking the first time the two neighbouring African nations have faced each other at senior international level in women's cricket. The series runs from September 11 to 19, 2026, with all five matches scheduled at Queens Sports Club. The encounters are set for September 11, 13, 15, 17 and 19.

South Africa captain and opening batter Laura Wolvaardt expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming assignment. Speaking ahead of the tour, Wolvaardt highlighted the significance of playing against fellow African opposition for the first time in her international career.

"It's very special for us. I think for as long as I've played, we haven't played against another African team. It's pretty cool that we get to play some cricket against our neighbours. So I'm very excited to head over there," Wolvaardt was quoted as saying by the ICC.

The South African squad includes several new faces making their international debut. Three uncapped players have been selected for the tour, providing an opportunity for emerging talent to gain experience at the senior level.

Several established players will miss the tour. Marizanne Kapp, Dané van Niekerk, Suné Luus, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tazmin Brits, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Ayabonga Khaka and Shabnim Ismail are unavailable for the series.

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Wolvaardt believes that the younger players have a lot of talent and will have a great opportunity to express themselves at the international level. She expressed her excitement ahead of the fixtures, waiting to see how the youngsters go about their game. Wolvaardt will look to guide them along the way as she is one of the rare experienced members in the squad.

"It’s going to be awesome to see those youngsters just express themselves and play free cricket against a new opposition. Lots of talent here in the net. I’m keen to see how they all go in the games,\" Wolvaardt said.