The Hollywoodbets Dolphins Ladies are aiming to make a stronger impact in the 2026/27 domestic women’s cricket season after bolstering their squad with key additions during the off-season.

Head coach Angelique Taai believes the team is better equipped to challenge consistently across all formats after identifying areas that needed strengthening following last season’s inconsistent campaign.

The Dolphins have largely retained the core of their squad, with only a handful of changes. Courtney Gounden and Kwaga Pinini have departed, while experienced all-rounder Robyn Searle joins the squad alongside two other new additions to provide greater depth and balance.

Taai said the recruitment strategy focused on addressing weaknesses exposed during the previous season. “We looked closely at where we fell short last season and targeted a few key areas,” she said.

“We wanted to add more depth, especially in positions where injuries or fatigue hurt us, and we also focused on bringing in players with the right mentality and work ethic.

“The goal wasn’t just to improve quality, but to create better balance and competition within the squad.”

Reflecting on the 2025/26 campaign, Taai admitted the Dolphins failed to maintain the consistency needed to compete at the highest level. “There were definitely positives to take from the season, but overall, we know we didn’t reach the standards we set for ourselves,” she said.

Consistency was probably our biggest issue. There were games where we performed very well and others where we let ourselves down.

Despite the disappointments, Taai believes the lessons learned have laid the foundation for a more competitive season. “Every setback taught us something, and hopefully those experiences will make us stronger this season.”

The Dolphins coach is optimistic about what lies ahead and says there is renewed motivation throughout the camp. “A new season always brings fresh energy and new opportunities for everyone involved,” she said.

“It’s a chance to reset, build momentum again and show the progress we’ve made. The players are motivated, the staff are motivated, and we’re looking forward to getting started.”

While acknowledging there is always room for improvement, Taai is satisfied with the balance of the current squad. “As a coach, you’re always looking at ways to improve, but on the whole I’m happy with where the squad is at,” she said.

“We shift our focus to building chemistry, staying focused and making sure we perform consistently once the season starts.”

With pre-season preparations well underway, the Dolphins will be hoping their blend of experience and youth can translate into improved performances as they look to establish themselves among the country’s leading domestic women’s teams.

Hollywoodbets Dolphins Women’s squad 2026/27
Jade de Figueiredo, Seshnie Naidu, Nondumiso Shangase, Alex Candler, Zintle Mali, Asakhe Nyovane, Michaela Andrews, Nobulumko Baneti, Nicole de Klerk, Elandri Janse van Rensburg, Robyn Searle, Yasmeen Khan (High Performance contract), Sisanda Ngubane (High Performance contract), Nonkululeko Mlaba (National contract) and Ayanda Hlubi (National contract).
Extended squad: Asamkele Kawu, Ziya Mohanlall and Paige Clark.