Proteas Women target ODI redemption in Christchurch

Proteas Women’s assistant coach Claire Terblanche has reiterated the importance of consistency in execution as the side builds for the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand.

Following the team’s 4-1 T20I series loss against hosts New Zealand Women, the Proteas Women set their sights on the upcoming three-match One Day International series against the same outfit.

The side has taken important lessons from the T20I series loss, with Terblanche highlighting consistency from a bowling point of view as the key to a much-needed redemption in the ODI series.

“I think our consistency — we weren't that far off the mark with our bowling. Comparably, we were quite close to them; they just executed a lot better than what we did,” said Terblanche. “So I think taking learnings from that and moving into the ODIs, I think will be a good thing for us.”

From the batting point of view, Terblanche emphasised that the team needs to exercise patience and build partnerships to come out on top in the ODIs.

The coaching staff has also sung the praises of youngster Kayla Reyneke, who impressed during the T20Is in what was her first tour with the Proteas Women, having debuted against Pakistan earlier this year.

“I think (what we need are) patience and partnerships. I think those are the two Ps,” said Terblanche. “Setting up a good foundation up front and then just holding in that middle period so we can have a good surge at the back.

“And talking about (the middle order), Kayla Reyneke, on her first tour away from home with the team, she really stood out, especially with that lower order, making sure we get to competitive totals.

“I think it's a role she's kind of found herself in. She's done really well, she's taken us to above-par scores at the grounds and I think kind of stamped herself to say that yes, she's here, but not yet arrived. So I think well done on what she's done in the T20s.”

Terblanche reiterated that the team needs to implement the learnings that they have taken from the T20I series.

“I think again, (it’s important) to take the learnings away out of the T20 games. We're playing at Christchurch again for the first ODI and then bearing in mind that it is a build-up to that World Cup that we do obviously want to qualify for,” she said.

“So yes, (the ICC Women’s Championship) points are important, but how we string those points together with performances, I feel for us will help us gain momentum moving forward.”

The first match of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand is scheduled to get underway in Christchurch at 3am SA time on Sunday.