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Proteas Women all-rounder Annerie Dercksen says the team’s strong form across all formats is beginning to pay off, this after their ODI series win over Pakistan Women with a game to spare.
Dercksen was instrumental in South Africa’s 16-run victory in the second ODI at SuperSport Park, giving the Proteas a 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Dercksen also welcomed South Africa’s lead at the ICC Women’s Championship table, having now claimed four wins from five matches.
"I think it was obviously a very good game – high scoring, with a very good batting wicket. I think we're really chuffed and happy that we've now sort of won the series. Bilaterals are something that we've identified we want to be good at, and ja,we're happy to have won the series," said Dercksen
Dercksen was in electrifying form with the bat, scoring 90 off 68 deliveries, while Tazmin Brits and Sune Luus added a combined 134 to steer South Africa to a dominant 361/8 in their 50 overs. She credited the team’s impressive performances to a collective effort, with each player focused on fulfilling their roles.
"We spoke about it the other day, that there's different people in our batting unit putting up their hands and stepping up for the team when we need it. I think in the past we were probably heavily reliant on our openers, so if they didn't score runs we were in a bit of trouble. Now we're seeing big scores from Sune, Kaapie and everyone else. Chloe and Nadine coming at the back end. Everyone is doing their job really well, and I think that's giving everyone the freedom to play the way they want, knowing there are other batters behind them who will also take responsibility. So ja, everyone having their game in order and taking responsibility is the big thing."
Reflecting on her partnership with Luus, the 24-year-old highlighted the confidence and understanding between the two.
Looking ahead to the final game of the series, set to take place on Sunday, 1 March at Kingsmead Stadium, Dercksen says they are intent on tightening their bowling performance and finishing the series strong. She also touched on the significance of Black Day and what it means to the team.
"Black Day is obviously every time a really special occasion for us, so ja, we will definitely be looking to make it even more special with a win. Then obviously, like you said, going 3-0 up in a series is also something that we have spoken about. Letting that last game slip in the T20s hurt a bit, so we will definitely be looking to go 3-0 up in the series."
