Mashimbyi identifies Proteas Women Achilles heel

South Africa produced another below par display with the willow in their 169 chase against the hosts on Thursday, posting a timid 129 in an innings that weighed heavily on Tazmin Brits’ shoulders with her 51. 

It was unfortunately the theme at this World Cup for them, with the top order not firing the way they should have.

"We didn't bring our best from a batting point of view based on how we know we can play. If you don't score runs in T20 cricket you will be found wanting," stressed Mashimbyi. 

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In the same breath, Mashimbyi lauded their bowling unit for holding things down in the six matches they played. While spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba had some positive spells at the tournament, it was the experienced heads of Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp who did most of the damage with the new ball in the powerplay.

"Our bowling was great throughout, and we can nitpick as much as we want but we have to appreciate the fact that we've done the work from a bowling point of view. It just didn't work out for us this time around."

The coach felt vindicated in his decision to bring 37-year-old Ismail to the World Cup, and left the ball in her court to decide whether she wants to continue or not.

There is however a silver lining from the T20 World Cup, as their performances earned them a spot at the LA28 Olympics, as the highest-placed eligible African team. The sport of cricket will finally be making a return to the Olympics after a 128-year absence.