South Africa made a statement by beating Sri Lanka in a rain-curtailed ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 match at R Premadasa Stadium. The victory by a 10-wicket margin underlined their increasing leadership in the tournament.
The bowling squad, led by Nonkululeko Mlaba, gave the Proteas an early lead. Her disciplined left arm spin destroyed Sri Lanka’s rhythm, taking three main wickets at only 30 runs. It took Sri Lanka the best part of 105/7 to negotiate alliances, with Vishmi Gunaratne’s match action of 34 off 33 being the only bright spot.
And now there was nothing but batting genius. Openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits eased the chase with poise and precision in an adjusted target of 121 runs. Wolvaardt became the first player in the world to score 60 off 47 balls with eight boundaries to prove her ranking, once again, as one of the most consistent players in the universe. Brits was the perfect match to her skipper with a fluent 55 off 42 deliveries, hitting four fours and two sixes.
Not only was the victory a boost to South Africa as they leapfrogged to second on the points table but also gave a signal to their opponents. They are now trailing Australia with eight points in five matches and which has already secured a semi final spot.
This victory shows the equilibrium in South Africa team, not only in the form and the leadership of Wolvaardt, but also in the incisive bowling of Mlaba. Provided that they retain this calmness, there is a high possibility that the Proteas will be among the best title challengers.
