Proteas ready to roll: South Africa sends six to Bowls World Cup in Malaysia

Team South Africa is sending a six-person team to the Bowls World Cup, set to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 4–8.

The competition will be hosted at the Bukit Kiara National Lawn Bowl Centre, where players from 12 nations will compete indoors in singles and pairs events over five thrilling days. The tournament will feature both para and able-bodied players.

“The World Cup is a defining moment for South African bowls,” said Bowls South Africa President David Hamer.

“Our Proteas stand ready to demonstrate their ability, their character, and to motivate a new wave of players to follow in their footsteps.”

This competition is a critical launchpad for the Proteas on their road to the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Neil Dalrymple, CEO of World Bowls, confirmed the tournament’s role in preparation for the Commonwealth Games.

“The inaugural World Cup will now be played indoors in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, November 4-8, 2025, as a preparation event for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games,” Dalrymple stated.

“This decision has been made following discussions with some participating MNAs given that 10 of the 12 nations are Commonwealth members and their high-performance focus is on playing indoors.”

The World Cup will be played entirely indoors, potentially utilising portable rinks with the same design as those likely to be used in the Glasgow games.

READ MORE:

• - Bowls SA sends top athletes to World Bowls Indoor Championship
• - SA's top bowls player Jason Evans brings home a bronze medal from the World Bowls Indoor Championship

World Cup Details

Twelve countries will participate in the World Cup: the host nation, Malaysia, plus the 11 highest overall countries from the 2023 World Championships. These nations include Australia, Canada, England, Hong Kong China, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, USA, and Wales.

The format is six-person teams—two open women, two open men, and two physical or VI (Visually Impaired) paras (one of each gender)—who will compete in singles and pairs, making for seven total events.

INTRODUCING TEAM SA

The South African squad, known as the Proteas, features a blend of seasoned competitors and dynamic new talent:

Jason Evans – The Blacksmith
The team’s seasoned anchor, Evans has medals from past World Championships and a reputation for composure under pressure. His calm authority makes him the backbone of the squad.

Wayne Roberts – The Strategist
Known as the “architect” of the end, Roberts’ tactical brilliance sets him apart. At 32, he is entering his prime and could emerge in Malaysia as a global star.

Jarid James – The Young Gun
Fearless and dynamic, James thrives under pressure. Bold shots are his trademark, and Kuala Lumpur offers him the perfect chance to announce himself to the world.

Anneke Scheepers – The Anchor
Leader of the women’s squad, Scheepers brings steady hands and calm resolve. A decorated bowler, she is determined to guide her side to a breakthrough.

Bridget Herselman – The Metronome
With unerring rhythm and consistency, Herselman is relentless. She has also stepped into a mentoring role, reflecting the spirit of Ubuntu within the squad.

Margie Palmer – The Clutch Player
Known for thriving under pressure, Palmer is the one who produces decisive shots when it matters most. Her cool nerves could be pivotal in Malaysia.

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