The Board of the Vitality Netball World Cup 2023 have showered praise on South Africa’s women’s Proteas cricketers who reached the final of the ICC T20 World Cup, where they finished runners-up to Australia. 

In acknowledging the performance of the entire squad, who became the first South African cricket team, men or women, to reach the final of a ICC World Cup, the chairperson of VNWC2023 Board, Ms Patience Shikwanbana, called it “a proud day for the country”.

“Against all odds our women’s cricketers rose to the occasion and were perfect ambassadors for South Africa on and off the field. They showed what is possible and they flt the backing and support of their home supporters. They unified a nation and we want to say a hearty congratulations to them,” Ms Shikwambana said.

“The Netball World Cup 2023 is only 150 days away and as hosts South Africa will be able to build on the success of the women’s cricketers. South Africa are one of 16 qualifiers for the major event being staged in Cape Town in July. We are confident that the event will showcase the very best of what’s possible when it comes to women in sport and we will build on the platform laid by our inspiring women’s cricketers,” Ms Shikwambana said.

“We would also like to congratulate the Local Organising Committee Board chair,  Muditambi Ravele, for the admirable job she did in helping put the event together. It was a resounding success and events of this magnitude could have been a success without the tireless efforts of her and her team.”

“Of course, full congratulations must also go to the winners, Australia. We look forward to welcome them and hosting them at the Vitality Netball World Cup 2023 as well!”