The fourteenth encounter of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 promises an enthralling clash as South Africa Women lock horns with Bangladesh Women on October 13th at the Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam. The contest begins at 3:00 PM IST, and with both sides showing flashes of brilliance in their campaigns, a riveting battle awaits under the Vizag sun.
Bangladesh began their World Cup journey in commanding fashion. They humbled Pakistan for just 129 and chased the target comfortably with seven wickets to spare. Against England, they displayed immense heart — posting 179 on a testing surface and reducing the defending champions to 103/6 before Heather Knight’s calm innings and a few contentious umpiring calls snatched victory away. Their third match, however, saw a setback as New Zealand’s bowlers ran through their lineup, dismissing them for 127 to hand Bangladesh a 100-run defeat.
South Africa’s campaign has been roller-coaster. After a disastrous start — bundled out for just 69 in their opening clash against England and losing by 10 wickets — they bounced back with remarkable composure. Their bowlers dismantled New Zealand for 231 before chasing down the target with 6 wickets in hand and nearly 10 overs to spare. That momentum carried into their next match against India, where they showcased immense grit to chase 252 with three wickets remaining. Their resurgence has reignited hopes of a deep run in the tournament.
Squads:
Bangladesh Women’s Cricket Team
Nigar Sultana (C & WK), Sobhana Mostary, Murshida Khatun, Fargana Hoque, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Nahida Akter, Marufa Akter, Ritu Moni, Salma Khatun, Lata Mondal, Sultana Khatun, Fariha Trisna, Dilara Akter, Shorifa Khatun
South Africa Women’s Cricket Team
Laura Wolvaardt (C), Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Marizanne Kapp, Tazmin Brits, Sinalo Jafta, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Anneke Bosch, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase
Players to watch out:
Nigar Sultana Joty
Bangladesh’s inspirational captain and wicketkeeper, Nigar Sultana, stands as the fulcrum of their batting lineup. With 1,344 runs in 61 ODIs, including a century, she brings stability and composure to the middle order. Despite a quiet run in the last few games (23, 0, and 4), her consistency in 2025 — scoring 334 runs in 8 matches — reflects her reliability. Behind the stumps, her sharp glovework and tactical nous continue to elevate the team’s overall energy.
Marufa Akter
The 20-year-old pace sensation has been Bangladesh’s most potent weapon with the new ball. Her fiery opening spell against Pakistan, where she reduced them to 2/2, set the tone for their victory. With 2/31 versus Pakistan, 2/28 against England, and 1/58 against New Zealand, Marufa continues to impress with control and movement. In 29 ODIs, she has taken 25 wickets, including a best of 4/29, and her early breakthroughs could prove crucial once again.
Tazmin Brits
Few batters have enjoyed a surge in form like Tazmin Brits in 2025. After scintillating hundreds of 101 and 171* against Pakistan earlier this year, she carried her rich vein into the World Cup with another ton against New Zealand. Her composed aggression and ability to build substantial partnerships have turned her into one of the most dependable openers in world cricket. With 1,525 runs in 42 ODIs, she remains South Africa’s batting mainstay.
Sune Luus
A figure of calm authority in the Proteas’ middle order, Sune Luus bounced back strongly after a lean start to the campaign. Her unbeaten 83 off 114 balls (9 fours, 1 six) against New Zealand was a masterclass in pacing a chase. Though she couldn’t contribute much versus India, her experience, versatility, and leadership under pressure make her indispensable. Across 137 ODIs, she boasts 2,579 runs and 116 wickets, embodying South Africa’s balance and depth.
Pitch:
The surface at the Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Stadium is known for its balance. While spinners thrive on its later-day grip and turn, pacers can exploit early bounce and carry under lights. Batting tends to get progressively tougher as the match wears on, making the toss a deciding factor. Historically, teams batting first have found greater success here. The average first-innings total hovers around 252, with roughly six wickets falling per innings. Expect a contest of patience and precision.
Weather:
Rain threatens to disrupt proceedings in Visakhapatnam, with forecasts indicating heavy showers and 80% chance of rain. Temperatures will linger around 30°C with 84% humidity, making conditions humid and challenging. A steady 18 kph breeze could aid seamers with early movement before spin comes into play — if the weather allows any play at all.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Chloe Tryon, Nigar Sultana Joty, Marufa Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Sobhana Mostary
Match Details:
Date – October 13, 2025
Time – 3:00 PM IST
Venue – Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam
Broadcast – Live on Star Sports Network; Streaming available on JioCinema
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