South Africa’s women’s team achieved a historic milestone as they defeated England by 125 runs in the semi-final of the ODI World Cup, earning their first-ever appearance in the title match. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt smashed a magnificent 169 off 143 balls, including 20 fours and four sixes, to power the Proteas to a formidable total of 319-7. The pairing of Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits provided a commanding opening stand that laid the foundation.
When it came to bowling, Marizanne Kapp turned the match decisively with devastating figures of 5-20, dismantling England’s middle order and triggering a collapse that saw the visitors all out for 194 in 42.3 overs. England’s hopes were briefly kindled by a fightback from Nat Sciver-Brunt (64) and Alice Capsey (50), but South Africa’s combination of aggressive batting and clinical bowling proved too strong.
This emphatic victory ends the Proteas’ long wait for a World Cup final berth, having been eliminated at the semi-final stage in recent tournaments. With this breakthrough, South Africa now advances to face either Australia or India in the final, confident and battle-hardened. The performance underlines the team’s evolution and readiness to perform on cricket’s biggest stage.
