Proteas’ Dercksen feels like she’s ‘living a dream’

Proteas Women’s team all-rounder Annerie Dercksen believes she is “living a dream” after being named ICC Emerging Women’s Cricketer of the Year.

The 23-year-old debuted in Test and ODIs last year after first tasting international action in the T20Is against the West Indies in 2023.

She has fast developed into a regular across formats for the Proteas, featuring in 17 T20Is, four ODIs and two Test matches in 2024 - taking 11 wickets and amassing 291 runs.

A massive congratulations to the South African Proteas Women's all-rounder, Annerie Dercksen, who has been named the ICC Women's Emerging Cricketer of the Year! 🔥🏏🎊💐🥳#AlwaysRising #WozaNawe #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/APkAfYEGkB

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) January 26, 2025

Dercksen also played an important role in the Proteas' journey to a second consecutive ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final in the United Arab Emirates last year – providing crucial middle-order runs while contributing with the ball.

“It genuinely feels like I’m living a dream. I still have the same excitement as when I was a five-year-old playing in the backyard, but now I’m playing alongside and against all my heroes. Being part of this team has been an incredible experience,” Dercksen said.

“Looking back, I feel this (2024) year has been full of personal growth and learning opportunities. When I reflect, in some ways I almost don’t recognise the player I was a year ago. I know there’s still plenty of room for improvement, and I’m eager to continue putting in the work.”

Hailing from Beaufort-West, where she plays for the local team Garden Route Badgers, Dercksen is earmarked to take over the premier all-rounder role in the Proteas’ Women’s team when global superstar Marizanne Kapp eventually hangs up her boots.

Plenty of support

But instead of focusing on the individual achievements, she believes her career trajectory would not be on this upward path were it not for the support of the Proteas coaching staff and her teammates, particularly the guidance she receives from batting coach Baakier Abrahams both on and off the field.

“I am not one for personal awards or recognition but it’s a great honour and I am truly humbled by this recognition,” she said.

“It’s probably more a reflection of the hard work and support from my teammates and coaches. I'm grateful and very motivated to continue growing and improving.

“This year has been filled with unforgettable moments, from my ODI and Test debut in India to the incredible experience of reaching the World Cup final.

“Although we didn't win, that journey remains close to my heart and one of the highlights of my career.

“Thank you to the entire Proteas Women management for their continuous support and mentorship.

“I also appreciate every coach who has worked with me — whether by throwing balls until their arms fell off or by simply having a quick chat over a cup of coffee.”