Wolvaardt and Kapp help South Africa reach the World Cup final

Wolvaardt and Kapp help South Africa reach the World Cup final

Women’s ODI World Cup: South Africa Vs England: Laura Wolvaardt’s stunning 169 and Marizanne Kapp’s fiery five-wicket haul powered South Africa to a historic 125-run win over England, securing their first-ever Women’s ODI World Cup final spot.

South Africa stormed into their first-ever Women’s ODI World Cup final with a dominant 125-run win over England, thanks to a brilliant century from Laura Wolvaardt and a five-wicket haul by Marizanne Kapp.

In the semi-final played in Guwahati, South Africa posted a massive total of 319 for 7 in their 50 overs. Leading the charge was Laura Wolvaardt, who played a stunning innings of 169 runs off 143 balls, filled with elegant strokes and powerful leg-side hits. Her knock became the second-highest score in World Cup knockout history. She was well supported by Tazmin Brits (45) and Marizanne Kapp (42 off 33 balls). Later, Chloe Tryon added an unbeaten 33, helping South Africa finish strong.

England, chasing a steep target of 320, crumbled early under pressure. Kapp struck twice in the very first over, removing Amy Jones and Heather Knight, leaving England at 1 for 3. Soon after, Ayabonga Khaka dismissed Tammy Beaumont, making it three ducks in a row. England briefly recovered through a 108-run stand between Nat Sciver-Brunt (64) and Alice Capsey (50), but once Capsey fell, the collapse resumed.

Kapp returned to take three more wickets, including Sciver-Brunt, finishing with figures of 5 for 20. Her spell was fiery and full of energy, sealing South Africa’s place in the final. Nadine de Klerk also chipped in, taking the last two wickets to wrap up England’s innings at 194 in 42.3 overs.

England’s bowling had some bright spots, especially Sophie Ecclestone, who took 4 for 44 despite carrying a shoulder injury. She dismissed Brits, Bosch, Kapp, and Dercksen, causing a mid-innings wobble for South Africa. But Wolvaardt’s calm and aggressive batting ensured they recovered and posted a winning total.

South Africa will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Australia and India in the final on Sunday. This will be their third straight World Cup final appearance, having finished runners-up in the T20 World Cups of 2023 and 2024.