South Africa move atop CWC25 standings with commanding win

South Africa continued their dominant run in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 with a massive 150-run win via the DLS method against Pakistan, extending their winning streak at the marquee tournament to five matches.

With the victory, the Proteas climbed to the top of the standings with 10 points from six games. Pakistan on the other hand, suffered their fourth and heaviest defeat of the campaign. The result means the Fatima Sana-led side are now out of contention for a knockouts spot.

After Pakistan captain Fatima Sana won the toss and elected to bowl first, South Africa went on a batting rampage posting 312/9 in 40 overs, their highest total in World Cup history. South Africa's target for Pakistan was adjusted to 306 under the DLS method.

By the time the innings ended, South Africa had bulldozed their way to 312/9, their highest-ever total in a Women’s World Cup, setting a target of 306 for Pakistan adjusted with the DLS method.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a sparkling knock (90) while Sune Luus (61) and Marizanne Kapp (68*) played vital supporting knocks, stitching crucial partnerships with the South Africa captain to keep the scoreboard ticking.

Nadine de Klerk then provided a late flourish with a whirlwind cameo, propelling the Proteas past the 300-run mark. South Africa’s innings featured 11 sixes - the most by any team in the ongoing tournament.

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In reply, Pakistan were unable to stitch partnerships as Proteas maintained firm control of the proceedings.

South Africa got off to a flying start with the ball, striking as early as the second over. Ayabonga Khaka provided the breakthrough in her first over when Muneeba Ali mistimed a pull shot and lobbed it straight to mid on.

That early strike set the tone and Marizanne Kapp soon took over with a fiery spell that dismantled Pakistan’s top order.

Kapp trapped Omaima Sohail LBW, removed Sidra Amin in the same over and then dismissed Aliya Riaz just before the end of the powerplay with Riaz falling in similar fashion to Amin. Pakistan slipped to four down before rain interrupted play once again.

The veteran all-rounder starred with the ball while Nondumiso Shangase (2/19) and Khaka (1/14) also impressed in a ruthless team performance.

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