South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 10 wickets:Tazmin Brits, N Mlaba shine for Proteas in Women’s World Cup 2025; Laura Wolvaardt awarded POTM

South Africa produced a dominant all-round performance to thrash Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in a rain-affected Women’s World Cup match on Friday. The game, played at the R. Premadasa Stadium, was reduced to a 20-over contest after rain halted play for over five hours. Chasing a revised target of 121 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, the Proteas openers made light work of the chase with a commanding display. Captain Laura Wolvaardt and opener Tazmin Brits led from the front, stitching together a stunning unbeaten partnership of 125 runs. Wolvaardt scored 60 not out off 47 balls, while Brits made 55 not out off 42 balls, sealing victory with 31 balls to spare. The chase ended in style when Brits smashed a six over midwicket, showcasing South Africa’s dominance throughout the innings. Sri Lanka are still searching for their first win of the tournament, sitting with just two points from five matches, both from washouts. South Africa, meanwhile, has bounced back strongly after being bowled out for just 69 against England in their opening game, and now looks well on course for a semifinal berth. Wolvaardt-Brits led the charge for the Proteas Women From the very beginning, the South African openers looked determined to finish the game early. They played aggressive cricket, putting the Sri Lankan bowlers under constant pressure. Their fluent stroke play and solid running between the wickets ensured there were no hiccups in the chase. The win marks South Africa’s fourth consecutive victory in the tournament, bringing them closer to a semifinal spot after a shaky start to their campaign. Also read: Six parties show interest in buying RCB: Bengaluru’s owner Diageo asks ₹16,600 crores for sale ahead of mini-auction in December Mlaba shines with the ball, bags three wickets Earlier in the day, left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba starred with the ball, picking up 3 wickets for 30 runs. Despite dealing with a wet and slippery ball, she bowled with great control to restrict Sri Lanka to 105 for 7. Masabata Klass also made an early impact, removing openers Hasini Perera and Chamari Athapaththu cheaply. For Sri Lanka, Vishmi Gunaratne played a valiant innings of 34 off 33 balls, but her efforts weren’t enough as wickets fell regularly. She even had to retire hurt after being struck on the knee but returned later to add some quick runs before the innings ended. Also read: BCCI gains ₹100 crore from Asia Cup: Board expects earnings of ₹6,700 crore in 2025 Rain plays spoilsport in Colombo during SL vs SA The match was interrupted when Sri Lanka were 46 for 2 in 12 overs, with heavy rain forcing players off the field for over five hours. Once play resumed, Sri Lanka tried to accelerate but were undone by South Africa’s disciplined bowling.