Proteas Women set for historic first T20I series against Zimbabwe

By SABC Sport
29th May 2026

The Proteas Women will travel to Bulawayo in September for a historic first-ever T20 International series against Zimbabwe Women, with the neighbouring nations set to contest five matches at Queens Sports Club.

The series, scheduled for 11, 13, 15, 17 and 19 September, will also mark the Proteas Women's first tour of Zimbabwe and the maiden senior women's T20I meeting between the two sides.

While the teams have crossed paths before in the ODI Quadrangular Series involving South Africa, India, Zimbabwe and Ireland in Potchefstroom in 2017, as well as through SA Emerging Women fixtures at the 2024 African Games in Ghana, this will be their first bilateral T20I contest at senior level.

Cricket South Africa chief executive Pholetsi Moseki described the tour as a significant occasion for the women's game on the continent.

"This is an important and exciting moment for women's cricket in Africa," said Moseki.

"As CSA, we are proud to be part of a historic occasion that not only expands international opportunities for the Proteas Women but also contributes to the continued growth and visibility of the women's game across the continent.

"Zimbabwe Cricket has shown a strong commitment to the development of women's cricket, and we look forward to what we believe will be a competitive and meaningful series for both teams and their supporters."

Zimbabwe Cricket managing director Givemore Makoni said the series would provide valuable exposure for the hosts against one of the leading teams in the international game.

"We are extremely pleased to welcome South Africa Women to Zimbabwe for what promises to be a historic and exciting series," Makoni said.

"South Africa are one of the strongest teams in world cricket and this tour presents our players with a valuable opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition in home conditions.

"This series reflects Zimbabwe Cricket's continued commitment to investing in the women's game and creating more opportunities for our players to compete at the highest level."

Zimbabwe last hosted a women's series in September and October 2025 against the UAE and have since featured in the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, in addition to touring New Zealand and Pakistan. Following the South Africa series, Zimbabwe are also scheduled to tour India for the first time for three T20Is and three ODIs.