CSA lauds Proteas' fighting spirit at Cricket World Cup

While they suffered a heavy defeat to England in a Women's Cricket World Cup semi-final on Thursday, Cricket South Africa (CSA) paid tribute to the Proteas, saying the team gave their all. 

While the Proteas failed in their quest to reach the final, going down to England by 137 runs, they had put up a number of impressive performances throughout the tournament, including some nail-biting, last over wins.

CSA chief executive officer-designate Pholetsi Moseki said the team should be commended for their fighting spirit and the fact that they gave their all.

“The team gave it their all during the campaign, winning many plaudits and admirers along the way. CSA commends their fighting spirit, dedication and determination, which they have continuously displayed.

“Much as the loss is disappointing, there are important lessons that the team will have learnt, which will sharpen and strengthen their game going forward. This abiding conviction underwrites our support for the team, and we enjoin the entire country to do the same.”

Lawson Naidoo, the chairperson of the CSA board, said the team could look forward with confidence to their next major tournament, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, which will be held in South Africa.

“The Momentum Proteas performance at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup campaign warrants praise. After winning their first four group stage matches, they were on the cusp of a place in the final," said Naidoo.

“It is however gratifying that the entire world watched in awe at the abundance of talent that the South African women’s cricket setup was able to produce. While the CSA Board commiserates with the team and shares in their disappointment, we will continue to support their growth as a team as we look forward to