Mandla Mashimbyi believes ODI World Cup final has unified the Proteas Women

The South African national team arrived in Johannesburg on Tuesday afternoon after their historic run in a world ODI tournament - having lost the title at the hands of India by 52 runs in Mumbai.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mashimbyi says reaching the ODI World Cup final has also left the team with a positive mindset which is good preparation for next year's T20 World Cup.

"I am overwhelmed by the fact that I've seen people grow as people. I've seen a team that's willing to unite and what's good about it is they've seen how the united front can make miracles happen and that's what we've done,” Mashimbyi said. 

“Now there is a reference for that which is good for the team and I think going forward we'll be even more united. We'll believe a little bit more and from the skillset point of view, I'll do everything in my power to make sure that when we get to England we are ready."

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Captain Laura Wolvaardt's opening partnership with Tazmin Brits in the semifinal against England was one of the team highlights, as the pair managed to add 116 runs for the first wicket, setting a platform for the Proteas' large total. 

Mashimbyi says after 11 months in charge of the national team, he is fully confident about his player pairing and adds that he is happy that players can now trust each other.

"Partnerships is a team responsibility, so whenever you've got an opportunity to go in there and bat or bowl, you need to make sure that you work for your teammates. You work with your teammates and that is a mantra that is known everywhere in the world in terms of cricket,” the coach added.

“Partnerships win you matches and that is something we've been really good at. When two batters are in, we are able to really stretch it and put teams under pressure and for me that is exemplary for what we are trying to create with this team. 

“As I said the belief will grow, people will want to get together for longer, which means we'll give us a chance to actually dictate where the game goes."