Mandla Mashimbyi admits ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka a 'learning curve' for Proteas Women

Mashimbyi's charges have suffered two defeats in as many games in Colombo, going down to India by 15 runs before a five-wicket loss to host nation Sri Lanka.

The Proteas still have two matches remaining, starting with a clash against India on Wednesday, and need to win both if they want to have a chance of reaching Sunday's final.

Mashimbyi though says the team have taken plenty of lessons on the tour so far as he looks ahead to the bigger picture and the global tournament which will be played n similar conditions.

"I'd rather it happen now than in the World Cup," Mashimbyi said. "This is a learning curve for us in these conditions. After this Tri-Nations, we need to go back to the drawing board and make sure that we fill up all the gaps that we've identified during this series.

"We'll make sure that we leave no stone unturned and we'll cover all those bases and make sure that when the World Cup comes, we're ready for every eventuality.

"The only way we can turn it around is if we win the two games. There are a couple of things that we've looked into, and hopefully, with our plans and with our execution, it works out for us."

Mashimbyi also offered an encouraging update on two key players, Sune Luus and Karabo Meso, who left the field during the recent game against Sri Lanka due to a knee concern and illness, respectively.

Both players are said to be recovering well and are being closely monitored ahead of the must-win encounter against India.