16 teams will participate in 41 matches in Benoni as well as the JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom, all looking to make their mark in the sport.

11 nations gained automatic entry to the tournament, including SA and neighbours Zimbabwe, while the other five went through a qualification process.

SA will renew their rivalry with India from 13h45 at Willowmoore Park, Benoni today and, much like the rest of the youngsters, Siyo is determined not to be overawed by the occasion.

“My mind is clear. I’m just there to do my job: play the game, enjoy it, bring the passion, bring the gees. That’s all I want to do out there. Be the player I know I am," she told ICC.com.

The hosts also have Scotland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Group D and, though they are on the back of a home series defeat to India, they are expected to be formidable in front of their home crowd.

UAE were the first to qualify after they won the Asia Qualifier in Malaysia with a six-wicket victory over Thailand.

Meanwhile, Scotland will field a female team for the first time at a World Cup.

Australia, who are in Group A, are the tournament favourites with a number of players already featuring in the local Women’s Big Bash League and other premium domestic leagues.

The likes of England, Pakistan (Group B), New Zealand and West Indies (Group C) will also be favourites to get out of their respective group.

The top three teams from each of the groups will progress to the Super Six round, where teams will be pooled into two groups of six.

The top two sides from there will move on to the semi-finals in Potchefstroom. With the final match at the same venue on 29 January.

JOSH-HAZLEWOOD

Josh Hazlewood in doubt for opening Test against India

Side strain rules Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood out of first Test against Proteas

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