Indore, 6 October 2025 — South Africa’s Proteas Women delivered a statement performance at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup on Monday, bouncing back in style with a six-wicket victory over New Zealand in Indore — powered by Tazmin Brits’ record-breaking century and Nonkululeko Mlaba’s spin masterclass.
After being bowled out cheaply against England in their opening fixture, the Proteas produced a complete all-round display to chase down New Zealand’s 231 with 55 balls to spare. The result not only lifted South Africa onto the points table but also restored their momentum heading into Thursday’s clash against hosts India in Visakhapatnam.
Mlaba sparks fightback after Devine’s resistance
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, the White Ferns got off to the worst possible start when Marizanne Kapp trapped veteran Suzie Bates leg-before with the very first ball of the innings.
New Zealand’s captain Sophie Devine led the recovery with a measured 85 off 102 balls, combining with Brooke Halliday (45) for a fluent 86-run stand that gave their innings structure. But once again, it was Nonkululeko Mlaba who tilted the contest firmly in South Africa’s favour.
The left-arm spinner ripped through the middle order, claiming 4 for 40 and ending key partnerships just as New Zealand looked set for a late surge. Supported by disciplined spells from Ayabonga Khaka (1/31) and Nadine de Klerk (1/32), Mlaba’s efforts ensured the White Ferns lost their final seven wickets for just 44 runs, collapsing to 231 all out in 47.5 overs.
Brits and Luus anchor South Africa’s chase
In response, South Africa’s top order fired back with conviction. Despite losing captain Laura Wolvaardt (14) early, Tazmin Brits and Suné Luus took control of the chase through a commanding 159-run partnership — the Proteas’ highest stand in a 50-over World Cup.
Brits, in sublime form, hammered her way to a 101 off 89 deliveries — her fifth century of 2025, setting a new record for most hundreds by a women’s player in a single calendar year. Her innings, packed with 15 boundaries and a six, perfectly balanced aggression with composure.
Luus complemented her brilliantly with an unbeaten 83 off 114 balls, finding rhythm after a patient start and guiding South Africa home with Sinalo Jafta (6*) after a brief wobble late in the innings.
By the time Luus lofted the winning boundary over extra cover, the job was emphatically done — South Africa sealing the win with more than nine overs remaining.
A statement of intent
This performance served as a timely reminder of South Africa’s depth and resolve. Mlaba’s control through the middle overs, combined with the batting class of Brits and Luus, underlined the balance within this squad — one that’s capable of challenging the world’s best on their day.
As the Proteas Women head to Visakhapatnam for their next group clash against India on Thursday, confidence will be high. With Brits in the form of her career, Luus rediscovering her fluency, and Mlaba weaving magic with the ball, South Africa’s World Cup campaign is back on track — and the green and gold will once again be a force to watch.
Next Match:
🗓️ Thursday, 9 October 2025
🏟️ ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam
🇮🇳 India vs 🇿🇦 South Africa
