Proteas Women’s World Cup: A Rough Start, Then Redemption

Karen Scheepers
Oct 7
3 min read

The Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 has already delivered sharp contrasts for South Africa. In their opening fixture, the Proteas were routed by a ruthless England side, only to bounce back memorably in match two with a dominant victory over New Zealand. Here’s how those two games unfolded and what they tell us.

Match 1: England Crush the Proteas by 10 Wickets

South Africa’s campaign began on a dismal note in Guwahati, where England sealed a 10-wicket win within just 14.1 overs after bowling the Proteas out for 69 runs in only 20.4 overs. After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, South Africa’s top order crumbled early. Linsey Smith (3/7), Nat Sciver-Brunt (2/5), and Sophie Ecclestone (2/19) tore through the lineup, leaving the side reeling at 38/6.

Only Sinalo Jafta showed some fight with a 22-run knock, but the total was too small to defend. England’s openers, Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones, cruised to victory without losing a wicket, reaching the target in the 14th over.

It was a tough opener for the Proteas, a harsh reminder of the standard required on the global stage.

Match 2: South Africa Bounce Back – Win by 6 Wickets vs New Zealand

A few days later in Indore, South Africa rewrote the script, and how! The Proteas produced a commanding six-wicket victory over New Zealand, chasing down 231 runs in just 40.5 overs.

The standout performer was Tazmin Brits, who smashed a stunning 101 off 89 balls, her fifth ODI century of 2025 and first at a World Cup. Her innings, decorated with 15 fours and a six, was pure class , aggressive when needed, yet calm under pressure.

Together with Sune Luus (81 off 114)*, Brits built a 159-run second-wicket stand, the highest partnership by South Africa in Women’s World Cup history. By the time she walked off the field, the team was within touching distance of victory, which they sealed with 9.5 overs to spare.

On the bowling front, Nonkululeko Mlaba (4/40) led the attack brilliantly, taking key wickets to restrict the White Ferns. The Proteas showed the perfect mix of discipline and aggression, a complete turnaround from their first match.

For her century and match-winning influence, Tazmin Brits was named Player of the Match, proudly holding her medal after one of the most memorable performances of her career.

Key Takeaways and What’s Next

Resilience and Response – From a crushing defeat to a confident win, South Africa proved their mental toughness.
Brits in Brilliant Form – With her fifth ODI hundred of the year, Tazmin Brits continues to make history and inspire belief.
Spin Dominance – Nonkululeko Mlaba’s control and accuracy highlight South Africa’s strength in adapting to subcontinental pitches.
Momentum Matters – The New Zealand win brings renewed confidence as the Proteas look ahead to tougher opponents in the group stage.

After a shaky start, the Proteas Women have reminded everyone what they’re capable of: power, precision, and passion. If they maintain this momentum, the 2025 World Cup might just see South Africa rewriting more records.

All image credits to: Cricket South Africa

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