With the tournament expanding to 12 sides, South Africa's campaign is set to test both their depth and maturity as they continue their rise in global women's cricket.

The Proteas, runners-up in 2024, will kick off their tournament on June 13 against Australia in Manchester, a rematch of the previous edition's final. It's a challenging opener, but one that could define South Africa's intent early in the group stage.

South Africa's group fixtures include matches against Australia on 13 June in Manchester, Pakistan on June 17 (Edgbaston) and India on June 21 (Manchester).

With only two teams from each group progressing to the semi-finals, every match carries weight - particularly against regional rivals like Pakistan and global contenders like India.

The Proteas will close their group stage against one of the qualifiers, aiming to secure a semi-final berth ahead of the final group clash between Australia and India on June 28 at Lord's.

The core of South Africa's 2024 squad is expected to return, offering both experience and cohesion. Laura Wolvaardt, Ayabonga Khaka, and Marizanne Kapp are central figures in a side that blends class with tenacity, while the emergence of younger talent through domestic competitions like the Women's Super League has strengthened the squad's overall balance.

The Proteas have also shed the tag of perennial semi-finalists in recent years. Their performance in 2024 - reaching the final for the first time - showed significant improvement in closing out matches under pressure, particularly with the ball in hand.

Semi-finals are set for June 30 and July 2 at The Oval, with the final scheduled for July 5 at Lord's - a potential landmark moment for South African cricket should they go all the way.

While England, New Zealand, West Indies, and Sri Lanka headline Group 2, South Africa's immediate challenge is to outplay two of the most established teams in world cricket - Australia and India - to book a spot in the final four.

South Africa arrive in England not as dark horses, but as legitimate contenders. With a well-drilled bowling unit, a settled top order, and a growing belief in big-match scenarios, this could be the most complete South African side yet to take the field at a World Cup.

A maiden global title has long eluded them - but 2026 presents a realistic and tantalising opportunity to change that narrative.

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