South Africa sealed a historic victory in the England vs South Africa semi-final as Laura Wolvaardt century led the Proteas to their first-ever Women’s Cricket World Cup final. Her explosive 169 off 143 balls and Marizanne Kapp’s five-wicket haul powered South Africa to a commanding 125-run win in Guwahati.
After being asked to bat first, Wolvaardt anchored the innings superbly, reaching her maiden World Cup hundred in 115 balls before accelerating to dominate the England attack. Her remarkable century against England included four sixes and 21 fours, propelling South Africa to 319 for 7 — the second-highest total in a World Cup knockout match.
England’s chase crumbled quickly as Kapp dismissed the top order with lethal accuracy, reducing them to 1 for 3. Despite a brief resistance from Nat Sciver-Brunt and Alice Capsey, Kapp’s return spell dismantled the middle order, finishing with figures of 5 for 20. England were bowled out for 194 in 42.3 overs.
This victory marked redemption for the Proteas after semi-final heartbreaks in 2017 and 2022. Wolvaardt’s masterclass not only made history but also established her as South Africa’s all-time leading run-scorer in ODIs.
South Africa will now face either Australia or India in Navi Mumbai, with hopes of lifting their maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup trophy.
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This story was first reported by The Guardian. Read the full article here.
