Refentse Shinners: Proteas Women success calls for more corporate support

The South African national women’s team will become the country's first cricket team to contest a 50-over World Cup final when they face tournament co-hosts India at Dr Patil Sports Academy on Sunday. 

This after the Laura Wolvaardt-led outfit beat England by a convincing 125 runs in the semi-final on Wednesday. 

Speaking to SABC Sport, Shinners says federations should work hand in hand with the corporate sector to see through the growth of the women’s game.

"CSA is very proud of coach Mandla [Mashimbyi] and the Proteas Women for reaching their first-ever ODI final," said Shinners.

"This achievement bears testament to what happens when a federation, country and corporates team up to support women’s sport. We hope for more commercial investment to come into women's sports.

"We invite other federations to invest in female athletes. Women's sport has grown in South Africa, women are doing well in different sporting codes across the country. 

"So we must also bridge the pay gap and support the women’s game."

In just under a year leading the national team, Mashimbyi is on the verge of breaking a long-standing white-ball duck for SA cricket, and Shinners is proud of his leadership and the unity he has brought into the team. 

“Very proud of coach Mandla and what he has managed to achieve with this group of talented individuals. The team is united and is pushing for one goal. We back them all the way," added the administrator.

READ: Mashimbyi credits united front for Proteas Women World Cup final