Miané Smit reveals conversations with Proteas Women coach

Smit has returned to the team ahead of the T20 International series in Zimbabwe starting this Friday, as Mashimbyi opted for a youthful squad for the historic tour to the neighbouring country.

She says while she lost her place in the senior team last year, she continued working hard to make sure she stays in contention.

"I was lucky I had a chat with coach Mandla just before the selection and the six months prior to the World Cup. So at least I knew where I stood prior to selection but I think it stays the same whether you get selected or not selected, you are always working hard or always working to improve," Smit said.

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Smit says she worked with a few coaches in the time she was away from the Proteas Women as part of her efforts to sharpen up in certain areas. 

She added that her SA Emerging Women’s team was also a good way to test her skills and how far she’s come to improving her game.

"Uhm yeah definitely, I had a nice opportunity to be at the national academy, working with some brilliant coaches and being part of the emerging side playing against Bangladesh,” she explained. 

“So, technically in the off season you always work to just fine tune everything and understand your game plans and what's part of your batting plan and how do you upskill and give yourself the best possible chance to execute. 

“As well as my bowling, working with coaches like Paul Adams and really working hard on my bowling technique, I feel like I'm a lot more consistent and I am a lot more option for the team to use me now."