Picture Credit: Cricbuzz
South Africa Make Historic Leap into World Cup Final
Date: October 30, 2025 | Venue: Guwahati
Led by Laura Wolvaardt’s record-breaking 169 and Marizanne Kapp’s all-round brilliance (42 & 5/20), South Africa stormed into their first-ever ODI World Cup final, defeating England by 125 runs in the semifinal clash at Guwahati.
South Africa’s Dominant Start
After being put in to bat, South Africa’s openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits built a solid foundation with a 116-run opening stand. Wolvaardt displayed her trademark timing while Brits supported her with smart strokeplay. However, Sophie Ecclestone’s twin strikes in the 23rd over broke the partnership, dismissing Brits (45) and Anneke Bosch (0) in quick succession. Sune Luus followed soon after, leaving South Africa at 120/3.
Wolvaardt’s Record Knock
Amid the collapse, Wolvaardt stood tall, crafting one of the finest innings in Women’s World Cup history. Her 143-ball 169, packed with 20 fours and 4 sixes, powered South Africa beyond 300. Marizanne Kapp (42) and Chloe Tryon (24) chipped in valuable runs late in the innings as South Africa posted a commanding total of 319/7 in 50 overs.
England Collapse Under Pressure
England’s chase started disastrously, losing three wickets for just one run. Nat Sciver-Brunt (64) and Alice Capsey (50) tried to revive the innings with a 107-run stand for the fourth wicket. But once Capsey fell to Sune Luus, the momentum shifted back to South Africa. Kapp returned for her second spell and ripped through the middle order, finishing with dream figures of 5 for 20.
Despite brief resistance from Linsey Smith, England were bowled out for 194 in 42.3 overs, handing South Africa a memorable 125-run win and a ticket to their maiden ODI World Cup final.
What’s Next
South Africa will now face the winner of the India vs Australia semifinal in the final at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. With Wolvaardt in sublime touch and Kapp at her all-round best, South Africa look well-poised for a historic finish.
Brief Scores
South Africa: 319/7 (Laura Wolvaardt 169, Tazmin Brits 45; Sophie Ecclestone 4-44)
England: 194 in 42.3 overs (Nat Sciver-Brunt 64, Alice Capsey 50; Marizanne Kapp 5-20)
Result: South Africa won by 125 runs
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