Miane Smit’s Journey to the Proteas Women’s Squad | SA Cricket

Miané Smit: Proteas Women Hopeful Embracing the Journey to the Top

South African all-rounder Miané Smit is steadily making her mark in SA women’s cricket. The talented Knights player has represented SA U19 and SA Emerging, and though she remains uncapped, her recent involvement in the Proteas Women’s national training camp in Tshwane from 17–21 February signals her growing presence in the senior squad.

At just 20 years old, Smit was also part of the SA Women’s squad that reached the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 final in the UAE as a travelling reserve. While she didn’t get the opportunity to play, she describes the experience as surreal, rubbing shoulders with some of the best players in the world.

"It’s always an honor and a privilege to be among the country’s best, learning, playing, and just growing as a player," Smit said.

During the recent national camp at the CSA Centre of Excellence, inclement weather forced players to shift their focus to tactical discussions and technical improvements. "Because of the rain, we couldn’t physically play, so we focused more on tactical awareness, game plans, and some technical aspects in both batting and bowling," she explained.

A Dream Experience on the Global Stage

Though she didn’t feature in the T20 World Cup, being part of the squad that reached the final left a lasting impact. "It’s still unbelievable to think back on that moment just being part of a final on such a huge stage," she recalled. "I still get goosebumps thinking about the players I met. One moment you’re walking into the elevator, and Alyssa Healy is standing next to you it’s surreal."

This exposure to world-class competition has only fueled her determination to break into the senior side.

Passion for Cricket Rooted in Family

Smit’s love for cricket began at home, playing with her father and younger brothers, Pieter and Malan. "I was lucky to have a cricket-loving family. It all started in the backyard playing on Sundays and during the week. My father and I made a plan, and I secretly joined the boys’ team at primary school without my mom knowing at first!" she laughed.

Her dedication has paid off, earning her a place among SA’s brightest young talents.

Inspired by Proteas Women Stars

Growing up, Smit admired Proteas Women captain Laura Wolvaardt. Now, she gets the chance to train alongside her idol. "Definitely Wolfie! Since I was young, I looked up to her. And I think most of the girls do," she admitted.

"We’ve had a few conversations. Derkie (Annerie Dercksen) jokes about how I’m still a bit shy around Wolfie, but I learn a lot from her. We’ve spent time chatting about the game, and I really enjoy it."

Beyond Wolvaardt, she looks up to senior players like Marizanne Kapp and Chloé Tryon. "Now that I get to be around them, I feel like all of them are my heroes in different aspects of the game," she added.

2025: A Year of Possibilities

With nine matches in the Hollywoodbets Pro Series under her belt, Smit is aiming to make an impact with both bat and ball. "2025 is a year full of possibilities. I can’t even begin to imagine what might happen," she said. "God willing, cricket will always come first. But I also focus a lot on my studies, and I have great friends and family who support me."

Her main goal? "I just want to score 100s, take wickets, and keep playing cricket!"

Balancing Cricket and Academics

Off the field, Smit is pursuing a degree in Accounting, inspired by her mother. "I have a real passion for numbers and calculations. My mother is an accountant, and she always spoke highly of the profession. I’m doing my best to balance cricket and studies, and so far, I’m passing!" she said with a smile.

SA Women’s Training Camp Squad

The recent Proteas Women training camp featured top names like Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Masabata Klaas, and others. As Smit continues to develop, she remains focused on making her mark in SA Women’s cricket and turning her dream into reality.

As the Proteas Women gear up for an exciting year ahead, young talents like Miané Smit represent the bright future of SA cricket. With dedication, passion, and the right mentorship, her journey to the top seems inevitable.