Only two new faces in Proteas' contracted group as continuity remains king

Tazmin Brits and Nonkululeko Mlaba are the only new faces to the Proteas' contracted group for 2022/23 season that contains virtually all the members that have seen the SA women soar over the past few years.

31-year-old Brits, who plays for North West, now has the opportunity to nail down a regular spot in the top order after being trailed at the recently concluded World Cup in the troublesome No 3 spot with mixed results.

The retirement of stalwart Mignon du Preez - who'll only be available for T20s - undoubtedly opened the door for the right-hander and wicketkeeper.

By contrast, Mlaba is a talented 21-year-old slow left-arm spinner who would be able to add some vital variety to an already potent bowling attack.

“On behalf of Cricket South Africa (CSA), congratulations to Tazmin Brits and Nonkululeko Mlaba on their newly-awarded contracts," said Pholetsi Moseki, CSA's chief.

"Their dedication and work on and off the field has not gone unnoticed and these contracts are a reward for their contributions."

Meanwhile, the buzzword in the rest of the camp is continuity as the team commences a busy schedule that includes a tour to England, a maiden appearance at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in August and next year's ICC Women's T20 World Cup on home soil.

Regular captain Dane van Niekerk's return from an ankle injury will be a major boost.

"After a remarkable year for the Momentum Proteas that saw the team climb to and maintain second spot in the ODI world rankings, it is with immense pleasure to announce next season’s squad of contracted players as they embark on their next challenge in world cricket.

"Just like the previous 12 months, the next year brings forth a hugely-anticipated calendar of international cricket for the