Dane van Niekerk, a veteran South African all-rounder, returned from retirement to train for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 after leading the national side previously.
Dane van Niekerk is a seasoned South African cricketer who competes as an all-rounder. Known for her strong batting and effective right-arm legbreak bowling, she first stepped onto the international ODI stage in 2009 against the West Indies. After retiring from all formats in March 2023, the former captain of the South Africa Women’s cricket team has reversed her decision and is back in the national squad. She has been named in the 20-member training group preparing for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, on May 14, 1993, Dane van Niekerk is widely regarded as one of the world’s finest all-rounders and continues to represent the South African women’s team. Her cricket journey began early, fueled by a deep passion that led her to train at cricket academies and at home. She ranks among South Africa’s youngest players to debut internationally, starting her professional life in domestic cricket where her performances quickly drew attention. Dane van Niekerk follows Christian beliefs and values, and her 2018 wedding followed traditional Christian customs, reflecting her commitment to her faith. Although she was born in South Africa, her ancestry ties her to European heritage, blending both cultural backgrounds. Raised in a supportive family, Dane van Niekerk’s parents recognized her talent and encouraged her ambition to become a cricketer. They played a pivotal role in her success, offering constant encouragement and strength, though she has shared little publicly about her relatives. Specific details about her mother remain undisclosed as she maintains a private life. If verified information about her mother becomes available, updates will be provided. Her brother, Gerrit van Niekerk, has been a constant presence throughout her cricketing career. They practiced together at home and he has stood by her side as she progressed into professional cricket. Information about Dane van Niekerk’s sister has not been made public; any future details will be shared if confirmed. In all formats of the game, Dane van Niekerk wears the jersey number 81 for both international and domestic teams, including franchise leagues. Her career exemplifies consistency and leadership in women’s cricket. Beginning her limited-overs journey in 2009, she left a lasting impression with standout performances. She holds multiple records and led South Africa to victories in several tournaments during her captaincy. As a key all-rounder, she retired in 2023 but has since rejoined the national setup ahead of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Her impact extends beyond international cricket, with strong showings in domestic leagues and global franchise competitions. Dane van Niekerk made her Women’s One Day International (WODI) debut on March 8, 2009, against the West Indies. Her first Women’s Twenty20 International (WT20I) appearance came on June 11, 2009, also against the West Indies, and her Test debut followed on November 16, 2014, against India. Across formats, she has amassed 1 century and 19 half-centuries, demonstrating reliable performance. In WODIs, she has played 107 matches, scoring 2,175 runs at a strike rate of 66.08 and claiming 138 wickets at an average of 19.14. In WT20Is, across 86 matches, she has scored 1,877 runs at a strike rate of 94.94 and taken 65 wickets at an average of 20.96. Her bowling achievements include seven four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls. In the Women’s Big Bash League, representing the Adelaide Strikers, she has competed in 93 matches, scoring 1,317 runs at a strike rate of 107.95 and claiming 78 wickets at an average of 23.58. She has not played in the Women’s Premier League, focusing instead on other formats. Dane van Niekerk’s career highlights include being the first South African woman to take 100 ODI wickets. In the 2017 Women’s World Cup, she recorded a rare four-wicket haul without conceding a run. She also achieved a hat-trick against the West Indies in an ODI in 2013. In 2016, she was named Player of the Tournament and led South Africa with both bat and ball. In 2017, she reached the top ranking as the world’s number-one ODI all-rounder and captained the team from 2016 to 2017, guiding them to multiple victories. Dane van Niekerk is an all-rounder for the South African national women’s cricket team. What is Dane van Niekerk’s age and birthday? Dane van Niekerk was born on May 14, 1993, making her 32 years old in 2026. What is Dane van Niekerk’s height? Dane van Niekerk stands at 5 feet 4 inches tall. Who is Dane van Niekerk’s wife? Dane van Niekerk is married to Marizanne Kapp, with the couple tying the knot in 2018. How many centuries has Dane van Niekerk scored in international cricket? Dane van Niekerk has scored one international century during her career with the South African team. What is Dane van Niekerk’s net worth and salary? Dane van Niekerk’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1 million, roughly equivalent to ₹8 crore. What jersey number does Dane van Niekerk wear? Dane van Niekerk wears jersey number 81 when representing South Africa in international matches. What are Dane van Niekerk’s major career achievements? Dane van Niekerk became the first South African woman to achieve 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in T20 internationals. All images included are editorial and licensed solely through Getty/Source.