The Proteas fell 52 runs short in an intense decider in Mumbai, marking their third consecutive runner-up finish at major tournaments after reaching the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup finals in 2023 and 2024.
Although disappointed, Wolvaardt reflected on the team’s progress over the past few years and the stronger structures now in place.
“After that first final at Newlands in 2023, we had domestic contracts introduced, which really boosted our depth,” she said. “Since then, we’ve become a team known for reaching finals. I’m proud of our growth it shows we’re doing something right. Hopefully, we can keep pushing and one day win one.”
Wolvaardt led by example throughout the tournament, finishing as the top run-scorer with a record-breaking 571 runs at an average of 71.37 surpassing Alyssa Healy’s record for the most runs in a single edition. Teammates Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, and Marizanne Kapp also made strong contributions with the bat, while Nonkululeko Mlaba (13 wickets) and Kapp (12) impressed with the ball.
Despite the final defeat, Wolvaardt remains encouraged by the team’s performances and ability to deliver under pressure.
“It’s been a great campaign for us. We’ll look back on it with pride. We played some really good cricket and showed real consistency,” she added.
With three consecutive finals under their belt, the Proteas may still be chasing their first ICC title, but their steady rise suggests that breakthrough moment is only a matter of time.