The 1st Semi-final of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 between South Africa and England turned out to be a commanding victory for South Africa, who thrashed England by 125 runs at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. Led by a majestic 169 from Laura Wolvaardt, the Proteas posted a challenging total of 319 for 7, then bowled England out for 194 in just 42.3 overs, powered by Marizanne Kapp’s outstanding 5 for 20. This impressive performance secured South Africa their first-ever final appearance in an ODI World Cup, avenging their past semi-final losses to England and marking a historic moment for the team.
From the outset, South Africa took control of the match. Winning the toss, they chose to bat first on a surface offering good balance for both batters and bowlers. The innings was anchored by captain Laura Wolvaardt, whose sublime century laid the foundation for a big score. Her 169 was built with excellent shot selection, patience, and aggression, including 20 fours and 4 sixes across 143 balls. Wolvaardt’s partnership with opener Tazmin Brits, who contributed a steady 45, was crucial in setting up the solid platform with a 116-run stand for the opening wicket.
South Africa’s batters exhibited a mix of resilience and attacking intent, successfully countering England’s strong bowling attack, particularly their spinners who have been effective in prior matches. After Wolvaardt’s departure, South Africa continued to pile on runs, with Marizanne Kapp (42) and Chloe Tryon (33*) stepping up, finishing with a competitive total of 319 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. This total put significant pressure on England, who faced a daunting chase against a confident and tactically sharp bowling lineup.
England’s response faltered early as South Africa’s bowlers got into a rhythm with disciplined lines and lengths. Marizanne Kapp was the star performer with the ball, producing a devastating spell of medium pace bowling that yielded five wickets for just 20 runs. Her ability to swing and seam the ball effectively dismantled England’s top and middle order, leaving the chase in tatters very early in the innings.
Despite some resistance from England’s captain Nat Sciver-Brunt (64), Alice Capsey (50), and the lower order, the deficit proved too large to overcome. The England batters struggled to cope with the consistent pressure and movement, and the Proteas’ tactical brilliance in the field denied any meaningful partnership. England was eventually bowled out for 194, falling short by a comfortable margin of 125 runs, sealing South Africa’s historic win.
This victory held deeper significance as it reversed the mood of previous world cup encounters between the two teams. South Africa had suffered narrow semi-final defeats to England in the last two Women’s ODI World Cups in 2017 and 2022. The empathic nature of this win, on a big stage and against a strong opponent, demonstrated the growth and maturity of the South African squad under Laura Wolvaardt’s leadership.
Looking ahead, South Africa will now await the winner of the second semi-final between Australia and India for their chance at the title in the Women’s World Cup final. For England, it’s a time for reflection on what went wrong and rebuilding as they come to terms with this heavy defeat on a crucial knockout day. The match at Guwahati will be remembered as a milestone for South African women’s cricket, showcasing their rise as a serious contender on the world stage.
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