Laura Wolvaardt sweeps top honors at Cricket South Africa Awards 2023-24

Table of Contents

Laura Wolvaardt’s unstoppable rise
Marizanne Kapp and Masabata Klaas shine
Other honorees
Cricket South Africa Awards 2023-24

Cricket South Africa (CSA) recently announced their annual awards, celebrating the standout performers from the 2023-24 season. This year’s awards recognized exceptional contributions from players between May 1, 2023, and April 30, 2024. The event highlighted remarkable individual performances, with South Africa women’s star Laura Wolvaardt dominating by bagging five major awards, including the coveted Women’s Player of the Year honor.

Laura Wolvaardt’s unstoppable rise

Wolvaardt, the inspirational captain of South Africa Women team, had an outstanding year on the field. She was Proteas’ leading run-scorer in both ODIs and T20Is during the award period, and her exceptional performances did not go unnoticed. Wolvaardt was named the Women’s ODI Player of the Year and Women’s T20I Player of the Year for her consistent batting brilliance across formats.

Her influence extended beyond her runs, as Wolvaardt’s impact on her teammates and fans was evident. She took home the Players’ Player of the Year award, which reflects the immense respect she commands among her peers. Additionally, her widespread popularity with supporters earned her the Fans’ Player of the Year award, rounding off an exceptional haul for the Proteas skipper.

Marizanne Kapp and Masabata Klaas shine

Two other prominent female cricketers also made their mark at the CSA Awards. Veteran all-rounder Marizanne Kapp won the Best Delivery Fuelled by KFC award for her stunning in-swinger that bowled Australia’s Beth Mooney during South Africa’s first ODI win over the Aussies. This delivery was recognized as the best ball of the season and highlighted Kapp’s impact on the international stage.

Meanwhile, Masabata Klaas made history by becoming the first female cricketer to win the Makhaya Ntini Power of Cricket Award. This prestigious award, now in its third year, honors players who have overcome significant challenges, much like Ntini himself. Klaas’ story of resilience and determination was celebrated as she joined the ranks of those recognized for their inspirational journeys.

Also READ: South Africa announces squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Laura Wolvaardt to lead

Other honorees

Eliz-Mari Marx was named the Women’s Newcomer of the Year, acknowledging her promising talent and contributions in her debut season. Nonkululeko Mlaba and Tazmin Brits were also honored for their stellar performances in domestic cricket, with Mlaba winning the Women’s Domestic One Day Player of the Season award, while Brits was named the Women’s Domestic T20 Player of the Season.