Dane van Niekerk, a South African all-rounder, returned from retirement to play for the national team in 2025. She is known for her strong batting and leg-spin bowling.
Dane van Niekerk is a seasoned South African cricketer who serves as an all-rounder. Recognized for her strong batting and effective leg-spin bowling, she made her international ODI debut in 2009 against the West Indies. After retiring from all international formats in March 2023, she reversed her decision and rejoined the national squad. She has now been included in South Africa’s 20-member training group as preparations begin for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Dane van Niekerk, born in Pretoria, South Africa, on May 14, 1993, is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders globally and continues to represent the South African women’s cricket team. Her passion for cricket emerged early, leading her to pursue the sport professionally. She honed her skills through training at cricket academies and regular practice at home. Niekerk stands out as one of the youngest South African women to debut in international cricket, beginning her journey in domestic cricket where she quickly gained attention for her standout performances. A devout Christian, Dane van Niekerk upholds religious values and was married in a Christian ceremony, reflecting her commitment to her faith. Born in South Africa, she maintains strong ties to European heritage, blending both cultural backgrounds. Raised in a supportive family that nurtured her cricketing ambitions, Niekerk credits her relatives for her success. While she has not revealed extensive details about her family, she often acknowledges their constant encouragement. Information about her mother remains undisclosed due to her private nature. Dane van Niekerk’s brother, Gerrit van Niekerk, has been a constant presence throughout her cricketing career. They practiced together frequently at home, and he has stood by her side as she progressed professionally. No details are publicly available about Niekerk’s sister, and she has chosen not to share more about her family members. While representing South Africa in international cricket, Dane van Niekerk wears jersey number 81. This same number is used across domestic cricket and franchise leagues as well. Her career exemplifies consistency and leadership in women’s cricket. Starting her limited-overs journey in 2009, she left a lasting impression with outstanding performances. Niekerk holds multiple records and previously led the South African team to victory in several tournaments. As an all-rounder, she was a key figure before retiring in 2023. Now, she has officially confirmed her return as part of the South African squad for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Her contributions extend to domestic and global franchise leagues where she continues to perform at a high level. Dane van Niekerk played her first Women’s ODI on March 8, 2009, against the West Indies. Her first Women’s T20 International debuted on June 11, 2009, also against the West Indies, and her maiden Test appearance came on November 16, 2014, against India. Over her international career, she has amassed one century and nineteen half-centuries, proving her reliability as a batter. In One-Day Internationals, she has featured in 107 matches, scoring 2,175 runs at a strike rate of 66.08 while claiming 138 wickets with an average of 19.14. In T20 Internationals, she has played 86 matches, scoring 1,877 runs at a strike rate of 94.94 and taking 65 wickets with an average of 20.96. Her bowling prowess is highlighted by seven four-wicket and two five-wicket hauls in international cricket. She has also participated in the Women’s Big Bash League for the Adelaide Strikers, playing 93 matches. During her time there, she scored 1,317 runs at a strike rate of 107.95 and took 78 wickets with an average of 23.58. Though she does not compete in the Women’s Premier League, she remains focused on other formats. Dane van Niekerk has achieved remarkable milestones in both international and franchise cricket. She became the first South African woman to take 100 ODI wickets and recorded the rare feat of taking four wickets without conceding a run in a Women’s World Cup match in 2017. She also achieved a hat-trick against the West Indies in an ODI in 2013. In 2016, she earned the Player of the Tournament award and led South Africa with both bat and ball. By 2017, she reached World No. 1 ranking in ODI all-rounders and captained the team from 2016 to 2017, guiding them to multiple victories. Dane van Niekerk is an all-rounder representing the South African national women’s cricket team. What is Dane van Niekerk’s current age and birth date? Dane van Niekerk was born on May 14, 1993, making her 32 years old as of 2026. How tall is Dane van Niekerk? She is 5 feet 4 inches tall. Who is Dane van Niekerk’s spouse? Dane van Niekerk is married to Marizanne Kapp, with their wedding taking place in 2018. How many centuries has Dane van Niekerk scored internationally? She has scored one international century while playing for South Africa. What is Dane van Niekerk’s estimated net worth and salary? Her net worth is approximately $1 million, which is around ₹8 crore. Which jersey number does Dane van Niekerk wear? She wears jersey number 81 when playing for South Africa in international matches. What are Dane van Niekerk’s major career achievements? She became the first female cricketer to score 1,000 runs and take 100 wickets in T20 internationals. All images used are for editorial purposes only and are licensed solely through Getty/Source.