South Africa cruise to a 10-wicket triumph in rain-shortened CWC25 clash
In a dominant display at the R Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo, South Africa outclassed Sri Lanka to secure a 10-wicket victory in their ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 showdown. The Proteas, who already boasted three wins in the campaign, stretched their winning run to four as they chased down a modest 105 in a rain-curtailed 20-over contest.
Early moments and a disciplined performance with the ball
South Africa won the toss and inserted Sri Lanka, who posted 105 for 6 in 20 overs after a rain delay shortened the match. Left-arm seamer Nonkululeko Mlaba delivered a key spell, taking 3 for 30 as Sri Lanka struggled to accelerate. Masabata Klaas made an impact in the powerplay, accounting for both of Sri Lanka’s wickets in the opening overs, while Nadine de Klerk also chipped in with a wicket as the chase loomed large for the hosts.
Wolvaardt and Brits lay a solid platform
South Africa’s openers, Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, calmly built the chase, scoring 25 runs in the powerplay and never allowing Sri Lanka to seize momentum. Wolvaardt reached a 37th ODI half-century, marking her second knock of the tournament, as the pair stitched a crucial partnership that laid the foundation for a flawless chase.
Bringing the chase to a close in style
With the target well within reach, Brits anchored the innings and sealed the win with a six off the final delivery, completing an emphatic 10-wicket victory. The chase finished in breezy fashion, showcasing South Africa’s confidence and sharpness in all departments on a day when Sri Lanka battled for consistency.
Key moments and turning points
Earlier in the match, Sri Lanka’s innings started with a hiccup as Vishmi Gunaratne, who top-scored with 34, had to retire hurt after a knee injury. Her return to the crease was brief, and she did not feature in the final sequence of play. The hosts managed to post 105, but South Africa’s bowlers, led by Mlaba’s three wickets, kept the score within reach and set the tone for the chase.
Impact on the standings
With the win, South Africa moved to second on the points table with eight points from five games, continuing their impressive tournament run built on successful chases. Sri Lanka, still seeking their first win in CWC25, slipped to a third defeat in five games as they search for stability in a challenging campaign on home soil.
What this means going forward
The Proteas demonstrated a blend of strong bowling restraint and clinical batting, signaling their readiness for tougher challenges ahead. As the tournament progresses, South Africa will look to sustain this momentum and cement their status as one of the frontrunners in the competition, while Sri Lanka will aim to regroup and capitalize on home support in upcoming fixtures.
