Laura Wolvaardt excited with rare opportunity to play at Newlands

The last time they played at the venue was at the final of the T20 World Cup against Australia back in February 2023, when the country hosted the tournament. 

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Wolvaardt says she had hoped the sell-out crowd on that day was enough to get them more matches there but unfortunately it wasn’t the case.

"Yeah of course we would. First time playing here since that World Cup final, two or three years ago. I haven't played here that much even though I'm from Cape Town. I am really looking forward to it," said Wolvaardt.

She’s also happy to play in her hometown following a few months overseas, playing the ICC Women’s World Cup and then headed down to Australia for the Women’s Big Bash League. Wolvaardt says it will be good for the team to have the crowd backing them for a change.

"Yeah, I think it's very nice to go back home. Looking forward to playing the series at home, we love the home crowd. Yes, look forward to some home support for a change," added Wolvaardt.

Wolvaardt plays for the Adelaide Strikers in the Australian T20 tournament and says it’s one of the best leagues in the world due to the years of investment put into women’s cricket.

"I thought it was really good, BBL is one of the best leagues. They have 16-year-olds bowling 115/118 - that goes into investing in women's cricket for a long time. It is a good challenge for overseas, and adapting to those conditions. They are obviously adjusting to those conditions, and it is always good to go that side and face those people," she expressed.

Ireland may not be one luminary name in world cricket, but Wolvaardt warned her team against underestimating them. She says they have a few players who have the ability to make life difficult for any top team.