The build-up for South Africa going into the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 is one filled with hope, anticipation, and a sense of uncompleted business. Coming into the event after reaching semis consecutively at the global level in a 50-overs event, and falling just short twice in Women’s T20 World Cup Finals, the Proteas really feel the world title can be theirs for the taking.
According to one of the more influential voices in the side-opening batter Tazmin Brits-the key to that potential breakthrough might just lie with one of South Africa’s youngest ever members – 18-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Karabo Meso.
Meso was fast-tracked into the international spotlight at just 16 years of age in a T20I against Sri Lanka, and has since grown in stature domestically and internationally. As the youngster prepares for her first big major ICC event, she can count on the support of a very seasoned campaigner in Brits.
“She’s a great talent,” said Brits of the youngster she has shared numerous experiences with on the Lions side. “I’m very excited for what she can bring to this team and I’m hoping we allow her the environment that she needs to showcase her talents.”
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Those words really mean something. Brits has had a close look at Meso and has forged match-winning partnerships with her in South Africa’s domestic circuit. The two shared a wonderful stand against Titans earlier this year, something Proteas fans will hopefully be treated to very soon on the world stage. For Brits, it’s not just about the runs come from Meso’s bat. It is more about the cricketing intellect and maturity she already displays.
“She’s very quick between the wickets and she’s got a good cricket brain, which for a keeper, helps a lot,” said Brits. “She knows where to put field placings and when to take singles.”
Being able to read the game, so often a yardstick for experience, is what makes Meso such a great prospect. In spite of being six years younger than the next youngest member of the South African outfit, she has already demonstrated that she can hold her own at the senior level. The big test will be stepping from promise to deliverance in a World Cup pressure cooker. Should she get there, she just might be one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
Brits is truly confident this teenage girl has what it takes to make the jump. “I feel if you are good enough and you can prove it; the world definitely takes notice,” she said.
This is not the first time in South African history where youthful energy has been tipped to wash over stalwart experience in a big-ticket occasion. But this time, the focus is different. Prior to now, the Proteas attended a new campaign partly as hopeful underdogs; this time they believe that crossing the final hurdle is within their reach.
For Brits, now 34 years old and perhaps batting at the height of her powers, having a youngster without fear like Meso in the set is more than just a selection – it is a statement of intention. The team has been nurturing the next generation and is ready to launch them on the biggest stage in the world.
What is remarkable about Brits’ evaluation is the middle ground she has found between encouragement and expectation. She is not afraid to acknowledge that international cricket is a “different ball game,” but when exposure is granted, trust will bring out the best in Meso. These are words of guidance and belief – the support that young talent can run with.
From the standpoint of a side still chasing a maiden ICC crown, the emergence of Meso may well give that needed spark. Every successful team has a young player who changes the storyline of a World Cup; someone who plays with no fear and in turn emboldens the belief of the masses. The endorsement by Brits appears to lay a claim that South Africa beholds Meso just as that very figure.
The Proteas will have to forage through subcontinental conditions that will definitely test their adaptability, the blend of seasoned and new performers, therefore, has never been stronger than this moment. Brits, with her runs and experience, will carry the load at the top, but on Meso’s account, she might well be the new energy to push South Africa from almost there to glory.
“She is young, yes,” Brits reminded us, “but I think talent outweighs anything no matter your age.”
Those words seal the endorsement of South Africa’s senior batter behind this young talent, and now the whole cricketing world will see if Karabo Meso can repay that faith and, in doing so, pen the beginning of a new chapter in South African women’s cricket history.
