Marizanne Kapp, born on 4th January 1990, is a South African cricket sensation who has left an indelible mark on the international cricketing landscape. Known for her exceptional skills and unwavering dedication, Kapp has established herself as one of the most prominent cricketers in South Africa’s national women’s cricket team. Let’s take a closer look at her remarkable journey.
A Trailblazer in Women’s T20 Internationals: Marizanne Kapp etched her name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the first South African cricketer to achieve a hat-trick in a Women’s Twenty20 International match. This feat showcased her prowess and set the stage for a promising career in the sport.
ICC Recognition: In December 2017, Kapp received well-deserved recognition when she was named as one of the players in the ICC Women’s ODI Team of the Year. This honor highlighted her outstanding performances on the international stage, solidifying her reputation as a formidable cricketer.
National Contract and Wicket Milestone: In March 2018, Kapp took another significant step in her career when she earned a national contract from Cricket South Africa for the 2018–19 season. This endorsement underscored her importance in the national squad.
September 2018 marked a historic moment as Kapp claimed her 100th wicket in Women’s One Day Internationals (WODIs) during a series against the West Indies. Her consistent performance with the ball continued to bolster South Africa’s cricketing fortunes.
World Twenty20 Tournament and Big Bash League: In October 2018, Kapp was a pivotal part of South Africa’s squad for the 2018 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 tournament in the West Indies. She emerged as the leading run-scorer for South Africa during the competition, further enhancing her reputation as a top-order batter.
The Women’s Big Bash League beckoned in November 2018 as Kapp joined the Sydney Sixers’ squad for the 2018–19 season. Her inclusion in the league showcased her ability to shine in the highly competitive world of T20 cricket.
Milestone of 100 WODIs: May 2019 marked another milestone in Kapp’s career as she became the third South African cricketer to reach 100 appearances in Women’s One Day Internationals. Her consistent contributions have made her an integral part of the South African team.
The Hundred and World Cup Heroics: In 2021, Kapp was drafted by Oval Invincibles for the inaugural season of The Hundred, reinforcing her status as a sought-after international player.
February 2022 brought another career highlight as she was selected for South Africa’s squad for the 2022 Women’s Cricket World Cup in New Zealand. In a memorable World Cup match against England in March 2022, Kapp achieved her first five-wicket haul in WODI cricket, demonstrating her prowess as a bowler.
The Hundred Triumph and Dubai Glory: In April 2022, Kapp’s stint with the Oval Invincibles in The Hundred led to triumph as her team clinched the championship. She was named Player of the Match for her match-winning performance in the final.
Kapp’s exceptional talents were on full display in May 2022 when she played for the Falcons team at the 2022 FairBreak Invitational T20 in Dubai. Her unbeaten 67* in the final showcased her ability to rise to the occasion, even in high-pressure situations.
Test Century and Commonwealth Games Selection: June 2022 brought another significant milestone as Kapp scored her maiden century in Test cricket, amassing 150 runs against England. Her achievement also marked the highest individual score by a South African woman in a Test match.
July 2022 held exciting prospects as Kapp was named in South Africa’s cricket team for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, highlighting her selection for one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world.
Personal Life: Beyond the cricketing arena, Kapp’s personal life has been intertwined with the sport as well. In July 2018, she tied the knot with her teammate and captain of the South African Women’s cricket team, Dane van Niekerk, forging a unique cricketing partnership off the field.
Conclusion: Marizanne Kapp’s journey in cricket is a testament to her extraordinary talent and unyielding dedication. Her remarkable achievements in international cricket, including historic milestones and championship victories, have solidified her status as a cricket superstar. As she continues to grace the cricketing world with her skills, Marizanne Kapp remains a source of inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a symbol of South African cricketing excellence.
