South Africa Women created history by qualifying for their first-ever ODI World Cup final, defeating New Zealand by 125 runs in the first semifinal of the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup held in Guwahati.
Batting first, the Proteas women posted a formidable 319 for 7, thanks to a magnificent 169 off 143 balls from captain Laura Wolvaardt. She was well-supported by Tazmin Brits (45) and Marizanne Kapp (42).
For New Zealand, Sophie Ecclestone claimed 4 wickets, while Lauren Bell took 2.
In reply, New Zealand were bowled out for 194 runs, despite a 107-run partnership between Nat Sciver-Brunt (64) and Alice Capsey (50) after an early collapse that saw them lose three wickets for just one run.
All-rounder Marizanne Kapp shone with the ball, taking 5 wickets for 20 runs, sealing a famous victory for South Africa.
With this win, South Africa stormed into the final for the first time in Women’s ODI World Cup history, with Laura Wolvaardt named Player of the Match for her record-breaking innings.
