\n<\/p>\n
Van Niekerk played the last of her 194 internationals in September 2021. <\/p>\n
After an ankle injury in early 2022, she attempted to return for a home World Cup in February 2023 but Cricket South Africa (CSA) said she did not meet the required time for a 2km run – rules which have since been relaxed.<\/p>\n
She said she was “absolutely broken” by that decision and retired soon after. <\/p>\n
In a social media post on Monday, Van Niekerk said: “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.<\/p>\n
“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. <\/p>\n
“I return with renewed energy, focus and a deep sense of gratitude for this chance.”<\/p>\n
South Africa have named 20 players in their World Cup training squad, though that does not include captain Laura Wolvaardt or all-rounders Chloe Tryon and Marizanne Kapp who are currently playing in The Hundred.<\/p>\n
The overall squad must be cut to 15 for the World Cup.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n