Could Proteas U19 stars help shape World Cup campaign?

As South Africa’s Proteas Women prepare for the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, much  attention has fallen on a pair of rookies who have swiftly transitioned from the U19 setup to the highest stage: wicket-keeper batter Karabo Meso and all-rounder Miané Smit.

Both players symbolize the next generation of South African women’s cricket, products of the country’s developing pathways, and potential difference-makers in a campaign where youth and energy may prove decisive.

From U19 promise to senior recognition

The emergence of Meso and Smit is no accident. South Africa’s investment in its women’s U19 program—most visibly showcased during the inaugural ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023—has created a platform for teenagers to cut their teeth against international opposition early.

Both cricketers excelled at that level.Meso, a technically gifted wicket-keeper batter, first caught the eye with her clean glovework and ability to handle pressure in age-group tournaments.\

Her calmness behind the stumps belies her years, while her batting—though still developing—has shown glimpses of the composure needed in middle-order situations.Smit, by contrast, has announced herself as a genuine all-rounder.

At U19 level, her batting stood out for its power and maturity, with a natural ability to accelerate innings when required. Coupled with her medium-pace bowling, which brings control and wicket-taking potential, she has been identified as one of the most balanced prospects in South African cricket.

Breaking into the senior side

Their step up to the Proteas seniors in 2024 and 2025 has been swift. Meso made her T20I debut in early 2024 before receiving her first ODI cap in April 2025.

While her numbers are still modest, selectors clearly value her glove work and long-term potential, ensuring she was included in the 2025 World Cup squad as one for the future.Smit, meanwhile, has made an immediate impact.

Her maiden T20I half-century—an unbeaten 59 against the West Indies—signalled her arrival on the international stage. In ODIs, she has already produced useful runs in the middle order and chipped in with the ball, suggesting she could develop into the kind of versatile cricketer every World Cup side needs.

Their possible roles in the 2025 World Cup

For Meso, the World Cup is as much about development as it is about performance. With established wicket-keepers in the squad, she may not start every match, but her inclusion points to the management’s desire to blood her on the biggest stage.

Even limited game time could be invaluable, giving her exposure to the pressures and rhythms of a World Cup campaign.Smit, however, could play a more active on-field role. Her ability to bat in the lower middle order and offer overs with the ball provides South Africa with balance, particularly in conditions that demand flexibility.

In a tournament where all-rounders often prove decisive, Smit has the tools to become one of South Africa’s breakout stars.

Symbolic of a new generation

Beyond their immediate impact, Meso and Smit represent something larger: the fruits of South Africa’s deliberate nurturing of U19 talent.

Their rise is a testament to the pathways created for young women cricketers, and their presence in the World Cup squad highlights a brightening future for the Proteas Women.

If South Africa are to mount a serious challenge for the 2025 crown, experienced campaigners will undoubtedly carry much of the burden.

Yet the spark of youth—embodied by Meso’s composure and Smit’s fearless all-round play—could provide the edge the Proteas need.