In a remarkable turnaround, South Africa stormed into their first-ever ICC Women’s ODI World Cup final with a thumping 125-run win over England — the same side that bowled them out for 69 in their opening game of the tournament.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt produced a masterclass, smashing 169 off 143 balls, the highest individual score by a South African in a Women’s World Cup. Her innings, featuring 20 fours and four sixes, anchored the Proteas’ imposing total of 319/7.
Very special feeling. We’ve lost to England in two previous semis — it really hurt. So this one means a lot. The memories of 69 all out did cross our minds, but losing the toss wasn’t the worst thing in the world.
Kapp’s Fiery Spell Destroys England’s Chase
Chasing 320, England’s innings imploded early under Marizanne Kapp’s relentless swing and precision. Kapp reduced England to 1-3 inside the first three overs, later returning to complete a brilliant five-wicket haul (5-20) despite battling cramps. While Nat Sciver-Brunt (64) and Alice Capsey (50) offered resistance through a 107-run stand, England never recovered from the early collapse and were bowled out for 194 in 42.3 overs.
Not sure 320 was enough runs, but the bowlers were phenomenal. Kappie was amazing. What she brings with both bat and ball makes her a two-in-one player. I’m proud of this group — we’ve made history.
England Fall Short, South Africa Make History
England skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt admitted her side were outplayed.
An incredible two innings from South Africa. We weren’t at our best, and to beat top teams, you’ve got to play complete cricket. Wolvaardt assessed the conditions perfectly, and they built strong partnerships that took the game away.
For South Africa, the victory marked the end of years of heartbreak, exorcising the ghosts of their semifinal exits in Christchurch 2022 and Bristol 2017.
Proteas Set Up Date with History
Earlier, Wolvaardt shared a 116-run opening stand with Tazmin Brits (45) before England clawed back with three quick wickets. The captain then rebuilt the innings alongside Kapp, accelerating spectacularly in the final overs. England’s Sophie Ecclestone (4-44) fought hard despite an injury, but the rest of the attack faltered on a benign surface. South Africa now await the winner of India vs Australia in Sunday’s final, having already written a historic chapter in their cricket story.
Brief Scores: South Africa 319/7 in 50 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 169, Tazmin Brits 45; Sophie Ecclestone 4-44, Lauren Bell 2-55) England 194 all out in 42.3 overs (Nat Sciver-Brunt 64, Alice Capsey 50; Marizanne Kapp 5-20, Nadine de Klerk 2-24) Result: South Africa won by 125 runs and advanced to the final.
