Four Boksburg Cardinals female players gained invaluable international experience when they represented the SA U15 girls’ team at the Rising Stars Friendly Baseball Series in Uganda from January 7.

Cailyn Smit, Madison Botha, Shayla-Mae de Jager, and Peyton Watkins were selected in the national squad for this international series aimed at growing women’s baseball on the continent.

SA opened the tour with two fixtures on January 7. In the first, they lost 8-4 to the hosts and later secured a 6-5 win in a thrilling match, won at the back end of the fourth inning, thanks to Zara Kariem’s single that sealed the win.

Botha played a crucial role in the win, contributing with two walks, while the team displayed patience at the plate, with six walks overall.

Former Benoni Indians player Lucy Miller delivered a composed relief pitching performance to help close out the game.

According to GameChanger Media, the match showcased the competitive growth of women’s baseball in Africa, with both teams demonstrating skill, resilience and determination.

“This tour is about more than results. It’s about exposure, development and inspiring young girls back home to believe that international sport is possible,” they said in a statement.

“The four Boksburg Cardinals players are gaining invaluable international experience while flying the SA flag high, contributing to the continued growth of women’s baseball in the region.”

The young SA side fought gallantly in the seven-match series, but ended up going down 6-1.

Also Read: Three Boksburg Cardinals make U15 National Baseball team

Also Read: Cardinals take first Ladies Plate Champs title