KEY POINTS
- Wolvaardt’s partnership with Tazmin Brits (45) laid the foundation for the high total, despite middle-order struggles.
- England’s Sophie Ecclestone claimed 4 wickets for 44 runs, leading the bowling attack for her side.
GUWAHATI, India: South Africa Women’s cricket team posted a formidable total of 319 in the first semi final of ICC Women Cricket 2025 against England Women at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati on Wednesday.
The star of the innings was captain Laura Wolvaardt, whose magnificent knock of 169 runs off 143 balls anchored the South African side.
Despite some early wickets falling, Wolvaardt’s brilliant batting ensured South Africa reached a daunting total.
Wolvaardt’s Captaincy Shines with a Stellar 169
Laura Wolvaardt, leading from the front, played a composed and aggressive knock. She scored a commanding 169 runs, hitting 20 boundaries and 4 sixes in her 184-minute stay at the crease.
Wolvaardt’s innings was a perfect blend of patience and aggression, showcasing excellent stroke play throughout her innings.
Her partnership with Tazmin Brits was particularly productive, as they put together a solid stand at the top of the order.
Brits and Wolvaardt Build a Solid Foundation
Brits supported Wolvaardt well, contributing 45 runs off 65 balls, with 6 boundaries and a six. Together, the pair formed a 116-run partnership that put South Africa on course for a high total.
However, Wolvaardt’s departure for 169 in the 48th over left a significant hole in the batting lineup.
Middle Order Struggles, Kapp’s Effort Boosts South Africa
After Wolvaardt’s departure, the middle order faced challenges, with wickets falling regularly.
Anneke Bosch was dismissed for a duck, and Sune Luus fell for just 1, while Sinalo Jafta and Annerie Dercksen also succumbed cheaply.
Marizanne Kapp, however, provided crucial support with a quickfire 42 runs off 33 balls, including 4 boundaries and a six, ensuring South Africa reached a strong total.
The tail-end contributions from Chloe Tryon (33* off 26 balls) and Nadine de Klerk (11* off 6 balls) pushed South Africa to 319/7.
England’s Bowling Efforts Led by Ecclestone and Bell
England’s bowlers were led by Sophie Ecclestone, who claimed 4 wickets for 44 runs in her 10 overs.
Her brilliant spell was the backbone of the English bowling attack, as she dismissed Tazmin Brits, Anneke Bosch, Marizanne Kapp, and Annerie Dercksen.
Lauren Bell also contributed significantly with 2 wickets for 55 runs, while Linsey Smith and Nat Sciver-Brunt added to the pressure with tight spells.
Sciver-Brunt claimed a vital wicket, dismissing Sune Luus for 1.
South Africa’s Batting
Laura Wolvaardt (c) – 169 (143 balls, 20 fours, 4 sixes)
Tazmin Brits – 45 (65 balls, 6 fours, 1 six)
England’s Bowling
Sophie Ecclestone – 10 overs, 4 wickets for 44 runs
Lauren Bell – 10 overs, 2 wickets for 55 runs
Nat Sciver-Brunt – 8 overs, 1 wicket for 67 runs
