The third and final ODI sees South Africa Women host Ireland Women at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on December 19, with the Proteas already clinching the series 2-0 after comprehensive wins. South Africa aims for a clean sweep to sharpen their edge ahead of future tours, while Ireland fights for pride on a batting-friendly pitch that could unleash their top order.
Squads:
South Africa Women’s Cricket Team
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Seshnie Naidu, Nondumiso Shangase, Chloe Tryon, Faye Tunnicliffe, Dane van Niekerk.
Ireland Women’s Cricket Team
Gaby Lewis (C), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Laura Delany, Georgina Dempsey, Sarah Forbes, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Jane Maguire, Aimee Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell
Players to watch out:
Laura Wolvaardt
Captain Laura Wolvaardt has 5,377 runs from 121 ODIs at a stellar average. Her masterful 124 off 111 in the second ODI shredded Ireland’s attack with elegant strokeplay. Wanderers’ true bounce suits her perfectly and could chase another milestone while anchoring the batting lineup.
Dane van Niekerk
With 2,175 runs and 138 wickets across 108 ODIs, van Niekerk’s explosive 88 off 47 flipped the second ODI on its head. Her return from a long hiatus showed vintage power and nous. All-round class thrives on high-scoring tracks like Wanderers, where she could chip in with wickets too.
Orla Prendergast
The all-rounder boasts 1,194 runs from 43 ODIs, plus handy seam bowling. Her fighting 97 off 86 (10 fours, 2 sixes) in the second ODI was Ireland’s lone highlight, nearly pulling off a miracle. Her bat and medium pace could salvage pride here, especially if Ireland bat first on this flat deck.
Amy Hunter
This 20-year-old keeper-batter has 1,130 runs from 40 ODIs, blending grit with flair. Her steady 64 in the second ODI offered crucial glue amid collapse. Top-order intent will be key on this run-friendly surface, and her glovework could unsettle South Africa’s middle order.
Pitch:
The Wanderers Stadium offers consistent bounce and pace, aiding batters especially the top-order, early in the game. High scores are common, but chasing big totals demands grit. Teams winning toss have often opted to bat first (history favors setting targets) and the pitch isn’t likely to deteriorate.
Weather:
Mild conditions with min at 14°C, maxes at 24°C, 85% humidity, and 49% precipitation chance are forecasted for the game. Early showers are possible but unlikely to derail play, promising complete action.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Laura Wolvaardt, Amy Hunter, Orla Prendergast, Dane van Niekerk, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Chloe Tryon, Sune Luus, Ayabonga Khaka, Arlene Kelly, Nonkululeko Mlaba
Match Details:
Date – December 19, 2025
Time – 4:30 PM IST
Venue – The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Broadcast – The game will be live-streamed on the JioStar app and website.
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