Even before the South Africans could figure out what hit them, their innings was over. It was wrapped up in just 20.4 overs, and all they could make was 69.
The Englishwomen chased the modest target down in 14.1 overs, to open their World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion — a 10-wicket win. They were making a strong statement too, and sending warning signals to Australia and India, the two strong favourites.
They had as perfect a day they could have hoped for. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt won the toss, and chose to bowl. Three spinners were picked, and one of them got into the thick of action in no time.
AS IT HAPPENED | England vs South Africa highlights
Linsey Smith came on to bowl the second over of the innings. With her second ball, the left-armer removed South Africa’s skipper and one of the world’s leading batters Laura Wolvaardt.
The captain’s leading edge off an attempted drive was caught by Smith off her own bowling. Thus one half of the world’s most successful South African opening partnership was back in the dressing room.
The other half would follow soon, and it was Smith again who was responsible for it. She got the first ball of her second over to drift in through Tazmin Brits’ gate and hit the leg stump. And Brits had come into this match after scoring hundreds in each of her last three ODIs.
Smith was well supported by the other bowlers, with Sciver-Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone and Charlie Dean claiming two wickets each.
| Photo Credit:
RITURAJ KONWAR
Smith was well supported by the other bowlers, with Sciver-Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone and Charlie Dean claiming two wickets each.
| Photo Credit:
RITURAJ KONWAR
In the next over, Lauren Bell moved the ball in just enough to knock off Sune Luus’ off stump. The following over saw South Africa’s most experienced campaigner Marizanne Kapp’s defensive bat being beaten by Smith. The Proteas slid to 19 for four.
It was indeed a dream spell from Smith, who had made her ODI debut just four months ago. She was well supported by the other bowlers, with Sciver-Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone and Charlie Dean claiming two wickets each. The only South African batter to get to the double figures was wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta who lasted as many as 36 balls for her 22.
England openers Tammy Beaumont (21 not out) and Amy Jones (40 not out, 50b, 6×4) took their team home without any fuss. And yes, a T20 match would have laster longer.
Published on Oct 03, 2025
