Newly contracted international star Yasmeen Khan is looking forward to taking her career to the next level with the Hollywoodbets Dolphins in the new season.
With over 70 caps for the Namibian national team in T20 cricket, Khan will bring a wealth of experience to the Dolphins side when she joins the ranks shortly. Khan is looking forward to a change in scenery and a new challenge.
"I am looking forward to being part of the Dolphins and cannot wait to get to know all my teammates and staff," Khan said. "I am not familiar with Durban but looking forward to explore Durban and get to know it.
"I am very excited to play at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead with it being one of South Africa’s iconic stadiums where many International games are played.
"Coming from Namibia we seldomly are able to play on famous grounds such as Hollywoodbets Kingsmead, so it will be a privilege and honour to call it my home."
Coming to the Dolphins wasn't an immediate decision for Khan who was on the radar for a few of the provinces, however the Dolphins snapped her up after coach Angelique Taai touched base with the 25-year-old.
"Joining the Dolphins did come to me as an unexpected surprise. I was still negotiating things with other provinces before Coach (Angelique) Taai had sent me a message and I immediately thought ‘wow’ — this might be the path laid out for me. And not too long after, everything was finalized.
"I decided to make the move due to more exposure, playing opportunities and with the goal to make a difference."
Passing on her experience and knowledge will be a big advantage to the Dolphins as they continue to nurture the next generation of talent. Despite Khan playing a more senior role in the squad she has strong personal ambitions.
"I am definitely a goal driven individual," she stated. "I aim to be as fit and strong as I’ve ever been and deliver consistent performances wherever I get the opportunity to.
"I also emphasize on having fun while working hard as without that enjoyment factor it is difficult to do well. Hopefully, I can make an impact for the team whether it be on or off the field.
"I am looking forward to getting to Durban and getting to know my teammates and coaches and to get used to the environment."
Having played 72 matches for the Namibian national team, Khan reflects fondly on one memory that stands out for her.
"My fondest memory of playing for Namibia is certainly winning against Zimbabwe in a tri-series tournament we hosted in 2022.
"It was the first time we had beaten a full member country. So much emotion and appreciation came out of that victory which was a complete team effort," she reflected.
Hollywoodbets Dolphins coach Angelique Taai is looking forward to seeing the impact that Khan has on the squad.
"Yasmeen comes with a lot of experience," Taai said. "She is a multi-talented player who can also bowl leg-spin and has leadership experience as well.
"She will add a lot of value to the space on and off the field. I personally just want her to enjoy her cricket with us and express herself with the bat and gloves; the rest will fall into place."
KZN Cricket CEO Heinrich Strydom feels that attracting international players shows the growth in women's cricket in the province.
"To add another player with international experience just shows the appeal of our women's programme here at the Hollywoodbets Dolphins," Strydom said. "After winning the CSA One-Day Cup last season, we are looking to push on and challenge for both titles next season.
"To include someone with the international experience of Yasmeen is important for us and we are looking forward to seeing what she can add to the set-up."