“It’s all about the journey” – Jafta reflects ahead of Proteas Women’s final tri-series ODI

Proteas Women wicketkeeper batter Sinalo Jafta believes the team has grown throughout the tour to the subcontinent as they prepare for their fourth and final match in the one-day international (ODI) Tri-Series against the hosts Sri Lanka in Colombo on Friday.

The last round-robin clash will get underway at 10am local time (6:30am SAST) from the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium and will be streamed live via Sri Lanka Cricket’s YouTube page.

In the previous outing, South Africa suffered their third consecutive defeat in the series, going down by 23 runs to India in a high-scoring contest. The match featured a fighting half-century from Chloé Tryon (67) and a career-best 81 from Annerie Dercksen.

Despite the losses, Jafta praised the team’s resilience and development in challenging subcontinent conditions. She believes these experiences will serve the squad well as they build towards the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup later this year in India.

"We actually came in with about six players under the pump, and I think just the character that everyone showed, I'm sure everyone picked up,” Jafta said in reflection of the defeat against India.

“Yes, we didn't get the W, but a lot of boxes are actually ticked. If you don't look at the result, but look at why we came here, you could get on the flight going back home, at peace. It's all about the journey.

"Going into India (World Cup), I'm not worried because I know we're a team that knows how to pick up their hands at the right time. So, going into India, we'll definitely be prepped,” she added

STILL READY TO GIVE IT ALL

On ending the series with pride, Jafta said: “Tomorrow we're going to go out there, give it everything that we have. Coach is always like if everyone does their job 100 per cent, the result tends to take care of itself,” she added.

Among the wicketkeeping unit on this tour is promising youngster Karabo Meso, who made her ODI debut in the opening match. Addressing the narrative of internal competition, Jafta clarified her perspective and role during Meso’s maiden series for South Africa.

"I never see it as a competition. I always see it as an opportunity for her to grow, because at the end of the day, we all know she is the future wicketkeeper of this team. I just come in from being a very good supportive role. Domestically, she's done a fantastic job for the Lions. It’s an opportunity well-deserved,” Jafta said.

A positive attitude will be crucial for the Proteas Women ahead of their final match in the Tri-Series. Known for her vocal presence behind the stumps, Jafta embraces her leadership role in keeping spirits high, especially in challenging moments.

"I've always had a positive approach in whatever situation I find myself. I tend to find that as soon as you go negative, immediately, people around you tend to be negative. So my focus is to just stay positive as long as possible."

Proteas Women Squad – ODI Tri-Series

Laura Wolvaardt (Captain) (Fidelity Titans), Tazmin Brits (DP World Lions), Nadine de Klerk (World Sports Betting Western Province), Annerie Dercksen (Six Gun Grill Garden Route Badgers), Lara Goodall (World Sports Betting Western Province), Sinalo Jafta (DP World Lions), Ayabonga Khaka (DP World Lions), Masabata Klaas (Fidelity Titans), Suné Luus (Fidelity Titans), Karabo Meso (DP World Lions), Nonkululeko Mlaba (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), *Seshnie Naidu (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Nondumiso Shangase (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Miané Smit (Knights) and Chloé Tryon (DP World Lions)

*Uncapped

Fixtures – ODI Tri-Series

Friday, 09 May @ 6:30am SAST – 6th ODI: Sri Lanka v South Africa (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)

Sunday, 11 May @ 6:30am SAST – Final: India v Sri Lanka (R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo)