South African veteran cricketer Dane van Niekerk has confirmed her return to international cricket, reversing her retirement plan after being out of action for more than two years. Ex-Proteas Women's captain Dane van Niekerk, who appeared in the last match for South Africa in September 2021, has come forward as available for selection for the Women's ODI World Cup 2025 to be played in India from September 30 to November 2. Van Niekerk, the most experienced South African player, had earlier retired from global cricket in March 2023 due to her failure to meet strict physical fitness requirements as dictated by Cricket South Africa (CSA). Her comeback is a big addition to South Africa's women team, whose announcement has not yet been made but is on the cusp of a good season. In an Instagram post by van Niekerk, she wrote: "I'm thrilled to announce that I have decided to revoke my retirement from international cricket. The time away has reminded me just how much I have missed representing my country and I am fully committed to giving everything to once again have that opportunity." She further wrote: "I sincerely apologise to Cricket South Africa and the cricket family for how I handled my retirement, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to hopefully one day express my skills again on the international stage. I know the standards of the team and the women's game continue to rise, and I am ready to work hard to meet them." She said: “I return with renewed energy, focus, and a deep sense of gratitude for this chance. Thank you to everyone who continues to support me on this journey." Also Read | Pakistan not bending to India for bilaterals, clears Naqvi View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dané Van Niekerk (@danevanniekerk) Van Niekerk's Career Path and Roadmap to Return Van Niekerk was initially named to captain South Africa in the 2022 ODI World Cup but was ruled out after an ankle injury required long rehabilitation. Although she regained form, she was missing for the 2023 Women's T20 World Cup due to CSA's two-kilometre fitness trial requirement. However, CSA has since relaxed its pick criteria, allowing more flexibility for older cricketers. In the previous two local seasons, the all-rounder showed her class for Western Province, scoring runs consistently in both versions and being among the top run-scorers in the Pro20 competition. Her leg spin and middle-order know-how can be of great use to South Africa, who are seeking their maiden World Cup title after successive semi-final eliminations in 2017 and 2022. Also Read | Sourav Ganguly Named Pretoria Capitals Head Coach for SA20 Preparations and Training Squad of South Africa South Africa made a 20-man training group announcement of a camp in Durban this week. While most of the regulars like Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp, and Chloe Tryon are busy playing in The Hundred, the remaining players are competing for spots in the final World Cup squad. South Africa Women Training Camp Squad: Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Lara Goodall, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Eliz-Mari Marx, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Luyanda Nzuza, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Miané Smit, Faye Tunnicliffe, Dané van Niekerk The squad will then travel to Pakistan to face a three-match ODI series ahead of the World Cup. South Africa will receive experience and batting depth, along with bowling, with the comeback of van Niekerk.