England Women beat South Africa Women by 10 wickets:Amy Jones scores unbeaten 40-runs, SA all-out for 69; Linsey Smith awarded POTM

England began their ICC Women’s World Cup campaign stunningly as they outclassed South Africa by 10 wickets on Friday. The match turned one-sided after England’s spinners, led by Linsey Smith, bowled South Africa out for just 69 runs, their second-lowest total in World Cup history. Once the bowlers did their job, England openers Amy Jones (40*) and Tammy Beaumont (21*) made light work of the chase, cruising to victory in only 14.1 overs without losing a wicket. The win not only gave England a flying start to the tournament but also sent a strong message to their rivals about the team’s form and confidence. Smith shines for England with 3 wickets South Africa, asked to bat first, never found their rhythm on a pitch that offered grip for the bowlers. Smith struck early, dismissing captain Laura Wolvaardt with a simple return catch in just her second delivery. She then sent Tazmin Brits and Marizanne Kapp back in quick succession, leaving South Africa reeling at 19 for 4 within the first six overs. Also read: Three Indian batters hit centuries, three unique celebrations- WATCH: Rahul dedicates unique gesture to his daughter, Jadeja brings out his trademark ‘sword’ Smith finished with sensational figures of 3 for 7 in four overs. Her efforts were well-supported by fellow spinners Sophie Ecclestone (2/19) and Charlie Dean (2/14), while pacer Lauren Bell also chipped in with the wicket of Sune Luus. South Africa’s batting collapse under pressure With their top-order gone, South Africa’s middle-order batters failed to steady the innings. The pressure mounted, and skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt stepped in with a tidy spell of 2 for 5, removing Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk to end any hopes of a fightback. Only wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta offered some resistance, scoring 22 runs, as South Africa avoided the embarrassment of their lowest-ever World Cup total of 51. Still, their eventual 69 all out reflected the dominance of England’s bowlers. Also read: IND-WI Test- Jadeja now has more sixes than Dhoni: Rahul surpasses Rohit with 10th century as opener, Jurel 12th Indian wicketkeeper with Test ton; top records England Cruise to Win in their campaign opener Chasing a small target, England batters played with freedom and composure. Beaumont survived a few testing deliveries from veteran pacer Kapp, but with no scoreboard pressure, she and Jones guided the team home with ease. Jones finished unbeaten on 40, while Beaumont made 21, as England sealed the win in just over 14 overs.