Veteran all-rounder Marizanne Kapp starred with both bat and ball, while skipper Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus also contributed fine half-centuries as South Africa defeated Pakistan by 150 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in a rain-affected Women’s World Cup clash on Tuesday, moving to the top of the table.
The 35-year-old Kapp smashed an unbeaten 68 off 43 balls, complementing Wolvaardt’s 90 and Luus’s 61 as the Proteas posted 312 for 9 in a match initially reduced to 40 overs per side. With the ball, Kapp continued her dominance, taking three quick wickets to reduce Pakistan to 35 for 4 in 10 overs, before multiple rain delays shortened the game to a 20-over contest. Chasing a revised target of 234, Pakistan managed only 83 for 7.
SA vs PAK, Women’s World Cup: HIGHLIGHTS
This victory marks South Africa’s fifth consecutive win in the tournament—a first for them in a World Cup—and secures their semifinal berth. With 10 points from six matches, they leapfrogged Australia and England to claim the top spot, while Pakistan’s campaign ended in disappointment.
Rain caused delays from the outset, suspending play for nearly two hours after just two overs. Once resumed, South Africa’s batters approached the innings with aggression, building a formidable total. Kapp’s all-round performance, supported by Shabnim Khaka’s crucial wicket, ensured Pakistan never gained momentum. When play resumed under improved conditions, the spinners completed the job, sealing a decisive win despite the shortened 20-over format.
– Ends
