Dané van Niekerk is a phenomenal cricketing all-rounder who played for South Africa, broke records and led as the women’s national captain for over 6 years. After a standout career in Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is from 2009 to 2022, Dané is back on the field with the Western Province women’s team for the new 2024 – 2025 season.
In this candid conversation, Dané shares her feelings about joining the Western Province team, the invaluable support she has received from her teammates, and coaching staff. We dive deep into her natural leadership skills, and how she believes in being a listening ear for those around her, both with seasoned and emerging players. We chat about her memorable first training camp with the team where she sported Marizanne’s kit, after tossing her own aside after her retirement.
Dané openly shares what it means to be back, the feeling of starting afresh, the mental battles of returning back to Provincial cricket and how nervous she felt to start bowling again. She is not closing the door on returning to international cricket in the future, but knows she will be held to a higher standard. Away from cricket, I ask Dané about marriage (as we can all use some advice), and she gives us a special look at Marizanne through her own eyes. This weekend the warm up game in Oudtshoorn will kick start the season, where Dané once faced her most darkest moments. We chat through the mental strength needed for the new season, the past memories and the bittersweet feeling of being a commentator watching the sport she loves, but away from the field. Whether you’re a cricket fan or simply wish Dané van Niekerk all the best for the new season, this episode is not to be missed!