Colombo, October 21, 2025 — South Africa Women defeated Pakistan in a rain-affected encounter at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup (WCWC) 2025 on Tuesday, climbing to the top of the points table with 10 points.
The result ended Pakistan’s hopes of qualifying for the semifinals as persistent showers continued to disrupt matches in Colombo.
South Africa Dominate Despite Rain Interruptions
Pakistan won the toss and chose to bowl first, but their early success — Fatima Sana removing Tazmin Brits for a duck — was short-lived. After a two-hour rain delay, the game was reduced to 40 overs per side. Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus then steadied South Africa with a 118-run stand, both scoring fifties to set a strong platform.
The Pakistan bowling unit lost its rhythm with wayward deliveries and poor fielding, allowing the Proteas to pile up 312 runs. Nadine de Klerk’s late cameo and Marizanne Kapp’s fluent 68 lifted South Africa to a commanding total. Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal claimed three wickets each but faced severe punishment otherwise.
Pakistan Struggle in Revised Chase
Chasing a DLS-adjusted target of 306, Pakistan never looked settled. Sidra Amin showed some resistance early on, but Marizanne Kapp’s three-wicket burst and Ayabonga Khaka’s early strikes derailed the innings. With rain causing further interruptions, the match was reduced to a 20-over chase, making the task virtually impossible. Natalia Pervaiz and Sidra Nawaz managed brief cameos, but Pakistan fell well short.
Kapp Named Player of the Match
Marizanne Kapp was awarded Player of the Match for her all-round performance. She said it was “a beautiful wicket to bat on” and praised Wolvaardt and Luus for setting the stage. Kapp added that although she wasn’t entirely satisfied with her bowling, she was happy to contribute three wickets and help South Africa secure another win.
Captains Reflect on the Game
Victorious captain Laura Wolvaardt praised her team’s complete performance, highlighting the collective effort in both batting and bowling. She commended Kapp and de Klerk for their finishing touches and noted that “everything clicked” for South Africa.
Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana admitted her bowlers “didn’t execute plans well” and that South Africa “dominated from start to finish.” She emphasized the need for composure under pressure and for batters to build stronger partnerships in future games.
South Africa on a Winning Streak
This victory marks South Africa’s fifth consecutive win in the tournament — their best run in Women’s World Cup history. With five wins from six matches, the Proteas have established themselves as strong contenders for the title.
Despite the rain repeatedly disrupting play, South Africa’s consistency shone through. The team applauded the ground staff for their tireless efforts in keeping the match playable despite difficult conditions.
Next Up: Australia vs England in Indore
The next fixture of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 promises fireworks, as Australia Women take on England Women at Holkar Stadium, Indore, on October 22. Both teams have already qualified for the semifinals, but fans can expect a high-octane battle between two traditional rivals.