In recent years, women’s cricket has made leaps and bounds, especially in the fast-paced world of T20 cricket. The thrill of nail-biting matches and fierce rivalries has undoubtedly captivated audiences and brought the women’s game into the limelight. However, one voice has echoed through the corridors of the sport that advocates for a deeper, more nuanced heart of cricket—the Test format. South African all-rounder Marizanne Kapp is at the forefront of this movement, passionately arguing for more attention to be given to the longest format of the game to raise standards and promote player development.
Kapp, who made her international Test debut back in 2014, has experienced firsthand the challenges that the limited opportunities for women in Test cricket present. Despite being an outstanding player who scored an impressive 150 against England in 2022, Kapp has only played in four Test matches throughout her career. This lack of exposure is a widespread issue in women’s cricket; since 2010, only 19 Test series have been held, with a staggering nine of those matches being one-offs between England and Australia. It’s evident that the world of women’s Test cricket needs a serious rethink if it’s going to reach its full potential.
Take South Africa’s last Test match against England in December 2024, for example, where they ended up on the losing side by 286 runs. In reflecting on the importance of Test cricket, Kapp stated in an interview with Reuters, “The longest format requires the most skill. Playing more Test cricket can enhance players’ skills and benefit the game overall.” Her words resonate deeply—she believes the experience gained from lengthy matches is vital for both personal and team development. It’s about more than just winning or losing; it’s about growth and building a foundation for the future of the sport.
Kapp advocates for a balanced cricket calendar that embraces all formats, believing that this will help players develop into well-rounded cricketers. “For me, it’s about getting as much international women’s cricket as possible,” she shared. The different challenges encountered across various formats lead to comprehensive growth. While T20 leagues have gained significant traction and are undeniably beneficial, Kapp isn’t shy about saying that they shouldn’t overshadow the traditional formats of the game.
The T20 format has truly blossomed around the world, thanks in large part to flashy franchise leagues like the Women’s Premier League (WPL), the Big Bash League, and The Hundred. Kapp has capitalized on this trend, having been signed by Delhi Capitals for a remarkable $181,000 in the inaugural auction of the WPL. But it’s not only about the paycheck; these leagues provide invaluable exposure for emerging players and help widen the talent pool, which ultimately contributes to the overall growth of women’s cricket.
Throughout the first three seasons of the WPL, Marizanne Kapp has made her mark, amassing 315 runs at an impressive strike rate of 125 and an average of 31.50 across 17 innings for the Delhi Capitals. Additionally, she has taken 26 wickets with an average of 19.53 and an economy of 5.97 in 22 innings. This includes an eye-catching five-wicket haul that highlights her abilities on the pitch. These statistics tell a story of potential, perseverance, and passion.
Moreover, Kapp outlines how the WPL serves as preparation for significant global tournaments such as the upcoming one-day World Cup in India. “Playing in these conditions is a massive help,” she remarked, highlighting how vital it is for teams to gain familiarity with local climates and pitches for success.
While T20 leagues indeed drive progress and popularity in women’s cricket, Kapp’s passionate plea for more focus on Test cricket reminds us that variety in formats is crucial. Embracing both Test matches and T20 leagues will not only enhance player skills but will also facilitate women’s cricket’s evolution and competitiveness on an international stage. The road ahead looks promising, but it requires collective support and commitment to ensure that the rich heritage of Test cricket is preserved and nurtured for future generations.
In a world increasingly captivated by quick thrills and instant results, Marizanne Kapp is a refreshing reminder of the beauty that lies within the longer format of the game—a call for patience, strategy, and the kind of development that lasts beyond a single match.
Image Source: Marizanne Kapp @ Instagram
