Just over 12 years ago, SA Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula described Proteas Test captain Graeme Smith as a “paragon of human perfection” as the South Africa opener called time on his career. One wonders what Mbalula would say about Laura Wolvaardt if he were still in the same position.
It’s a silly hyperbolic line which I don’t agree with, as no human should be described as perfect – except in the case of Wolvaardt’s cover drive perhaps.
As good as Smith was, having led his country more times than any other skipper in Test cricket, he never made a Cricket World Cup final.
Wolvaardt will now be playing her third final in an ICC event with the Proteas women, and her first as captain.
Mbalula Congratulates Proteas on X, But Message for Wolvaardt Missing
Mbalula, now ANC Secretary General, did post a generic congratulatory message on X for the Proteas team, but did not single out Wolvaardt.
That’s besides the point though, as the comparison between Wolvaardt and Smith is what matters more.
Of course, Smith achieved plenty in Test cricket, like leading the Proteas to achieve the number one world ranking and notable series wins in Australia and England.
Still, for all he achieved, success for South Africa in limited overs remained elusive since he made his debut in 2002 to 2013 when he marched off into the international cricket sunset.
Wolvaardt’s Historic Knock in Women’s Cricket World Cup Semi-Final
Meanwhile, Wolvaardt at 26 seems to always contribute when it matters most in World Cup games.
Since South Africa were bowled out for 69 against England in their opening game of this Women’s Cricket World Cup, Wolvaardt’s contributions have been more significant, with three fifties.
However, when it came to the semi-final against England on Wednesday— that’s when Wolvaardt produced one of the finest knocks in the history of Cricket World Cup knockout matches.
It’s also a fitting coincidence that her 169 is exactly 100 runs more than her side made in their entire innings the last time they played England.
It was a stunning statement for Wolvaardt to make as she achieved her best-ever score in the format to boot.
Whatever happens in the final, Wolvaardt already has her own piece of history as she may have already secured her place as one of the greats of the game.
@Michael_Sherman
IOL Sport
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