South Africa Women’s National Academy Team bounced back in emphatic fashion, securing a commanding 228-run victory over Namibia, the Capricorn Eagles, in the second 50-over clash, restoring their momentum in the series with a dominant all-round performance.
After a heavy 100-run defeat in the opening encounter, the South Africa Academy side came out with renewed intent and showcased their batting depth and firepower to post a mammoth total of 364/4 in their allotted 50 overs.
The innings began cautiously, with opener Nicole Clare De Klerk contributing 14 runs before falling early. But what followed was a masterclass in partnership building and momentum control. Alexandra Clare Candler and Delmari Tucker formed the backbone of South Africa’s innings with a spectacular 146-run partnership.
Candler played the anchor role to perfection, compiling a well-crafted 107 off 134 deliveries, mixing patience with precision. At the other end, Tucker was the aggressor, striking a blistering century 100 off just 72 balls, setting the tone for a relentless batting onslaught.
Once Tucker departed, Candler continued to anchor the innings and found valuable support from Oluhle Siyo. The duo added 81 runs for the third wicket, with Siyo contributing a fluent 44 off 48 balls. Even as wickets fell at the other end, Candler remained steady, and when joined by Kayla Reyneke, the two upped the scoring rate significantly.
Reyneke unleashed fireworks in the final overs with an unbeaten 66 off just 28 deliveries, taking full advantage of a tiring Capricorn bowling attack. Their 84-run stand propelled South Africa to a towering total of 364. Among the few highlights in the bowling for Capricorn, Tuhadeleni Saima managed to break through with figures of 1 for 43, while Kejarukua Eveleen picked up 1 for 59 in a tough outing.
In reply, the Capricorn Eagles crumbled under the weight of the daunting chase. Their innings never found stability, with an early setback as opener Sunè Wittmann was dismissed for just 1. A brief flicker of resistance came through Kayleen Green and Yasmeen Khan, who stitched together a 28-run partnership.
Green scored 22 off 26 while Khan added a brisk 22 off 14, but neither could push on to make a significant impact. Mezerly Gorases chipped in with 23 off 29, while Mekelaye Mwatile added a fighting 25 off 20 balls lower down the order. However, the rest of the batting lineup failed to offer much resistance, with several batters falling cheaply and the innings folding for just 136 runs in 29.2 overs.
South Africa’s bowling attack was as disciplined as it was incisive. Kgomotso Rapoo was particularly effective, claiming 2 wickets for just 21 runs in 4.2 overs. Leah Jones also impressed with her spell, taking 2 for 23, while Caitlin Gail Wyngaard chipped in with 2 for 44. Delmari Tucker, who had earlier sparkled with the bat, also contributed with the ball, picking up 1 for 3 in her 3 tidy overs.
It was a complete performance from the South African Women’s Academy Team, demonstrating their ability to bounce back under pressure. The massive 228-run victory not only levelled the series but also sent a strong message about the depth and talent within the squad. With the series now hanging in the balance, all eyes will be on the next match as both teams aim to seize control.
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