How Tazmin Brits went from benchwarmer to Proteas Women hero

Brits was named Player of the Match in their 88-run win against the Netherlands last night, where she posted an unbeaten 114 from just 69 deliveries in Bristol. 

She was left out of the first two matches against Australia and Pakistan in favour of Suné Luus, but was key in both wins against India and the Dutch, as she opened alongside captain Laura Wolvaardt. 

"There still seems to be a lot of ups and downs in my life, but I like to believe that God gives the difficulties to his biggest soldiers. I feel that my story is written, all I have to do is show up because I know what my capabilities are."

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The 35-year-old’s knock was the second highest in women’s T20 World Cup history, bettered only by Australia’s Meg Lanning’s 126 against Ireland in 2014. 

It was also only the second century by a South African in the competition following Lizelle Lee’s 101 against Thailand in 2020. 

Despite the impressive feat, Brits does not think she has secured the opening spot exclusively for herself.

She revealed the conversations between herself and coach Mandla Mashimbyi ahead of both matches against India and the Netherlands.

"He just told me to go out and enjoy it, and to play my game. He knows what I'm capable of doing I just need to show more intent. He also said to me during the second drinks break that the sixes need to start flying."

Brits admitted that they’ve kept an eye on the football World Cup where Bafana Bafana have made history with a maiden knockout berth. They’re both next in action on Sunday as South Africa faces Bangladesh in the cricket and Canada in the World Cup.