WPCA announces Western Province Women’s contracted squad for 2026/27 season

The Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) is proud to announce the contracted Western Province Women's squad for the 2026/27 domestic season, as the Girls in Blue prepare to defend their status as one of South Africa's leading women's teams.

Following an outstanding 2025/26 campaign that saw Western Province Women crowned Hollywoodbets Pro50 champions while successfully defending their Hollywoodbets Pro20 title, head coach Claire Terblanche and her squad are determined to build on that success and continue setting the standard in domestic cricket.

The contracted squad retains the majority of the players who played a key role in last season's double triumph, providing continuity, experience and stability ahead of another demanding campaign.

WPCA is also delighted to announce that Rifqah Essau has been awarded a High Performance contract in recognition of her impressive performances and continued development. The contract marks another significant milestone in her promising cricketing career.

The association also extends its sincere gratitude to Caitlin Wyngaard, who has moved on to the next chapter of her career after making a valuable contribution to the success of the Girls in Blue. WPCA thanks her for her commitment and dedication to the team and wishes her every success in her future endeavours.

With a talented, balanced and experienced squad in place, Western Province Women will once again set their sights on competing for honours as they embark on the 2026/27 season with confidence and ambition.

WPCA CEO Corrie van Zyl has welcomed the announcement of the contracted squad: “The Western Province Women’s team has consistently demonstrated excellence, professionalism and resilience and we are confident that this group has what it takes to compete at the highest level again in the 2026/27 season. On behalf of WPCA, I would also like to thank Caitlin Wyngaard and Tatum le Roux for their contributions to the team and wish them every success in the future.”

WPCA Cricket Services Manager Clinton du Preez added: “One of our key objectives is to ensure that Western Province continues to produce players capable of competing at the highest level while maintaining a healthy balance between experience and emerging talent. The introduction of exciting young players like Jemma and Jae-Leigh is a testament to the strength of our development pathway

and the work being done throughout our clubs, schools and provincial structures,” said Du Preez.

“At the same time, retaining the majority of this successful squad creates healthy competition for places and provides an ideal environment for our younger players to learn from experienced campaigners. We are excited to see this group continue its growth and embrace the opportunities that the 2026/27 season will bring as we strive to keep Western Province at the forefront of women's cricket."

Western Province Women 2026/27 Squad: Dane van Niekerk, Delmari Tucker, Faye Tunnicliffe, Jemma Botha, Jae-Leigh Filander, Kayla Reyneke, Lara Goodall, Leah Jones, Nosipho Vezi, Oluhle Siyo, Rifqah Essau, Yandiswa Mangele.

National Contracts: Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk.