04 March 2020

Marizanne Kapp in doubt for T20 World Cup semi-final with respiratory tract infection

South African lynchpin Marizanne Kapp is doubtful for the T20 World Cup semi-final against Australia on Thursday due to a respiratory tract infection.

The opening bowler and No. 3 batter has been battling the infection since the group stages and was forced to sit out of their game against Thailand before playing as a specialist batter against Pakistan.

Kapp has scored 69 runs and taken two wickets in the tournament so far and is also one of the most experienced players in the Proteas' side.

Skipper Dane van Niekerk spoke highly of the important role the all-rounder plays in the side, but also praised the strength of the young players who can fill the gap.

She said: "Marizanne is very important, everybody around the room knows how important she is for our side.

"She's not only one of the best batters in the world but she's one of the best all-rounders. At the end of the day, it is the semi-final, yes, but a player's health is more important than I guess the game.

"We are lucky enough to have 15 very talented cricketers here, so whatever decision is made, I'm confident that the players will pick up their hand and try and make sure that she's not missed too much. 

"Sune [Luus] has picked up many a times in Marizanne's role in the batting. I'm not too worried but hopefully she gets up in good spirits tomorrow so we can include her in the team," she finished."

Kapp, 30, was rested from training on Wednesday and a decision is yet to be made as to whether she will play in their critical semi-final in Sydney.

However, should their semi-final be rained off, South Africa will advance straight to the final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday where they will take on India due to both teams winning their respective groups.

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