In a thrilling semi-final clash of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 held at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, India, the South Africa Women’s National Cricket Team created history by defeating the England Women’s National Cricket Team by a massive margin of 125 runs. This emphatic victory not only showcased South Africa’s all-round dominance but also marked their first-ever entry into the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup Final.
Match Overview: SA-W vs ENG-W
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Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati
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Match: ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 – 1st Semi-Final
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Result: South Africa Women won by 125 runs
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Toss: England Women won the toss and elected to field
The crowd in Guwahati witnessed a spectacular performance led by Laura Wolvaardt, who delivered one of the finest innings in women’s cricket history. South Africa’s batters capitalized on every opportunity, while their bowlers demolished England’s batting lineup with precision and power.
South Africa Women’s Batting Performance
Batting first, South Africa posted a mammoth total of 319/7 in 50 overs. The innings revolved around the magnificent captain’s knock from Laura Wolvaardt, who smashed an incredible 169 runs off 143 balls, studded with 20 fours and 4 sixes. Her flawless timing, placement, and composure under pressure anchored the South African innings from start to finish.
Tazmin Brits played a solid supporting role with 45 runs, building a strong opening partnership with Wolvaardt. Marizanne Kapp, the seasoned all-rounder, contributed 42 crucial runs down the order, ensuring South Africa crossed the 300-run mark.
Despite England’s efforts to contain the scoring through bowlers like Charlie Dean and Lauren Bell, the Proteas women maintained a strong scoring rate throughout the innings, showcasing excellent running between the wickets and clean hitting.
England Women’s Struggle in the Chase
Chasing a target of 320, the England Women’s team faltered early. Their top order collapsed under the disciplined bowling of the South African attack. Only Nat Sciver-Brunt (64 runs) and Alice Capsey (50 runs) managed to put up some resistance, but the mounting required run rate and frequent wickets derailed their chase.
England was bowled out for 194 runs in 42.3 overs, handing South Africa a well-deserved victory. The defending champions failed to cope with the pace, swing, and accuracy of the South African bowlers.
Marizanne Kapp’s Five-Wicket Masterclass
If Wolvaardt’s batting was the story of the first innings, then Marizanne Kapp’s bowling brilliance was the highlight of the second. She delivered a fiery spell, taking 5 wickets for just 20 runs, breaking the backbone of England’s batting order. Her ability to swing the ball both ways and maintain a tight line made her unplayable at times.
Nadine de Klerk also contributed with two wickets, while Ayabonga Khaka and Nonkululeko Mlaba kept the pressure on with disciplined spells. Together, they showcased why South Africa is one of the most balanced teams in women’s cricket today.
Key Performers
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Laura Wolvaardt: 169 runs (143 balls, 20 fours, 4 sixes)
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Tazmin Brits: 45 runs
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Marizanne Kapp: 42 runs & 5 wickets for 20 runs
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Nat Sciver-Brunt: 64 runs
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Alice Capsey: 50 runs
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Nadine de Klerk: 2 wickets
South Africa Creates History
This victory is historic — marking South Africa Women’s first-ever appearance in a Women’s ODI World Cup Final. After years of heartbreak in semi-finals, the Proteas have finally broken the barrier with a commanding performance against one of the strongest teams in world cricket.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt’s leadership, combined with Kapp’s all-round brilliance and a unified team effort, has taken South Africa to new heights. Players like Suné Luus, Anneke Bosch, and Sinalo Jafta also played vital roles throughout the tournament, ensuring consistent team performance.
England Women’s Campaign Ends in Disappointment
For the England Women’s team, this was a tough defeat. Despite entering the semi-final with momentum, they were completely outplayed in all departments. Star performers like Amy Jones, Charlie Dean, and Nat Sciver-Brunt couldn’t replicate their earlier form, leaving England to regroup and rebuild ahead of future tournaments.
Guwahati Weather and Match Conditions
The weather in Guwahati was clear and ideal for cricket, with pleasant evening temperatures and minimal humidity. The pitch offered good bounce and carry, assisting batters early before slowing down in the second innings. Bowlers who maintained consistent lengths were rewarded, as seen in Marizanne Kapp’s spell.
Looking Ahead: The Grand Final Awaits
With this win, South Africa Women march into the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between India and Australia. The team’s confidence, balanced combination, and hunger for victory make them a serious contender for the world title.
As the tournament nears its climax, fans across the world eagerly await to see if Laura Wolvaardt, Marizanne Kapp, and their teammates can script the ultimate fairytale and lift their maiden World Cup trophy.