The Botswana women’s national cricket team has steadily built its presence in international women’s cricket since its inception, emerging as a notable representative for the country in ICC events. The team is currently coached by Karabo Motlhanka and has gained full Women’s Twenty20 International (WT20I) status for all matches played since July 2018, following the ICC’s extension of full T20I status to all member nations.
Botswana made its WT20I debut during the Botswana 7s tournament in August 2018, facing Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and Sierra Leone. They finished third in the round-robin stage and won the play-off for third place against Mozambique by nine wickets, demonstrating early promise in regional competition.
Their involvement in ICC events has grown, including regular participation in the Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers. For the 2025 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier Division 2, Botswana once again takes part, aiming to secure advancement further in the global T20 pathway. Their continued involvement in qualification tournaments is a testament to both their ambitions and the development of women’s cricket structures within Botswana.
Squad:
Aliya Motorwala, Goabilwe Matome, Oratile Kgeresi, Pako Mapotsane, Tlhalefo B Godisamanga, Amantle Mokgotlhe, Merapelo Phiase, Onneile Keitsemang, Tuelo Shadrack, Wendy Moutswi, Laura Mophakedi, Goitseone Setshwane, Kesego Inakale, Maatla Sefati
Recent campaigns have reflected a mix of challenges and growth. Over the past year, Botswana’s players have made significant individual contributions, with Laura Mophakedi scoring 235 runs in 7 innings at an average of 33.57 and Wendy Moutswi bagging 8 wickets in 7 innings at an average of 9.62. These performances underscore a competitive spirit and steady improvement, even if the team has faced tough opponents on the continental stage. Across their history, Botswana Women have played 70 WT20Is, recording 22 wins, 47 losses, and a tie as of April 2025.
Individually, Botswana has developed several consistent performers. Batter Laura Mophakedi leads their run charts with 1,026 T20I runs with three half-centuries and a highest score of 67 and the only batter to cross the 1000-run mark for Botswana Women, while Goabilwe Matome tops the wicket tally with 62 wickets with best bowling figures of 6 for 1 since 2018. Such contributions have not only driven results but have created a solid base for emerging talent.
Botswana Women enjoyed a dominant group stage in the 2025 Kalahari Cup, registering emphatic victories over Eswatini (by 122 runs), Mozambique (by 75 and 58 runs), and another strong 9-wicket win over Eswatini to secure their place in the final. Their campaign was powered by standout performances from batters like Laura Mophakedi and bowlers such as Wendy Moutswi and Goabilwe Matome.
However, despite their early momentum, Botswana fell short in the title clash, losing the final to Sierra Leone Women by 39 runs after being bowled out for 68 in pursuit of 108 at Gaborone Oval on April 30, 2025. Overall, their Kalahari Cup run showcased both their improved depth and some persistent struggles under finals pressure.
Botswana Women’s cricketing journey is marked by resilience, growth, and increasing international experience. Their participation in tournaments like the 2025 Africa Qualifier Division 2 highlights both their ambition and the promise the sport holds for women in Botswana.a
