South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt on Tuesday said the "calmest team" will emerge on top in their semifinal clash with England at the Women's World Cup.

The Proteas won five of seven matches in the league phase to take third spot below England in the standings, and the two face each other again in Guwahati on Wednesday.

"I think for me tomorrow it will be just about keeping everyone as calm as possible," Wolvaardt told reporters on the eve of the first semifinal.

"I think the calmest team out there will most likely win. I think 50 overs is a very long time and it is very easy to let the pressure of a semifinal get to you."

It’s Semi-Final time! 🔥

We’ve reached the knockout stage of the #CWC25! 🏆#TheProteas Women are geared up and ready to give it their all as they face England in a high-stakes clash for a place in the final! 💪🇿🇦#Unbreakable pic.twitter.com/qWh6If51BL

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) October 26, 2025

South Africa are chasing their first World Cup title, having fallen short in the latter stages of previous tournaments.

They were beaten by England in the semifinals of the last two ODI World Cups in 2017 and 2022, and although they reached the final of the last two T20 World Cups (2023 and 2024), the trophy still eludes them.

"That semifinal loss against England was four years ago so I think we were a totally different looking side, they have got a lot of different players as well," Wolvaardt said of their defeat in 2022.

"It's sort of a fresh opportunity and it starts from zero, so I am looking forward to the challenge and hopefully I am able to learn from those (T20) semifinal victories that we have got and stay calmer under pressure."

Led by Nat Sciver-Brunt, England's only defeat so far at this edition of the tournament was to Ashes rivals Australia.

They are favourites against a South Africa team that was bundled out for 97 by Australia in their last game. That heavy defeat ended a run of five straight wins for South Africa, who suffered a 10-wicket thrashing by England in their tournament opener.

"I am proud of this group, the way they have stuck together," England coach Charlotte Edwards said. "We have sort of five weeks away now and our best cricket is yet to come and that's a really exciting place for us as a group."

Defending champions Australia will face hosts India in the second semifinal on Thursday in the outskirts of Mumbai. The final is on Sunday.

The Proteas Women are determined to put their best foot forward when they face England in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 semifinal at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday, as they aim to reach their first-ever final in the 50-over format.

The knockout encounter is set to begin at 3pm local time (11:30am SAST) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport Grandstand (Ch. 201).

Addressing the media during the pre-match press conference, captain Laura Wolvaardt outlined the team’s approach to the crucial clash, emphasising the importance of staying focused and trusting their strengths against a familiar rival.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England
🇿🇦 South Africa
🇮🇳 India
🇦🇺 Australia

Four teams locked in for the #CWC25 semi-finals 🔐#SSCricket | #HereForHer pic.twitter.com/hwKXx1Q57Y

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) October 27, 2025

“We've had a great tournament so far. As a group, we're trying to focus on the positives, sticking to our game plans, and doing what we do best. If we just keep playing the way that we have, we'll have a really good shot at winning tomorrow.

“We want to win tomorrow, and so do they. It's a semifinal, anything can happen, so if we just play our best cricket, it'll be a really good game,” the skipper noted.

Encounters between South Africa and England have become a familiar fixture in ICC tournaments, with the two sides meeting at the semifinal stage of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cups in 2017 and 2022, as well as in the historic 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup semifinal at Newlands, where the Proteas triumphed to become the first senior South African team to reach a World Cup final.

The Unbreakable Spirit. 💪🇿🇦

It’s the spirit that connects us all. The spirit that rises when we fall, unites us when it matters most, and drives us to do the unbelievable.

This is the spirit behind the Proteas badge. One badge. One spirit. Undivided in pushing us to… pic.twitter.com/ayQIvAXMXE

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) October 28, 2025

In the current 50-over campaign, South Africa began their tournament with a heavy 10-wicket defeat to England at the same venue. They then bounced back in outstanding fashion, securing five consecutive victories against New Zealand, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, before losing to defending champions Australia in a top-of-the-table contest.

Reflecting on the team’s recent experiences in World Cup knockout matches, including back-to-back semifinal wins in the shorter format in 2023 and 2024, Wolvaardt expressed her hope that those moments will help the Proteas Women maintain composure under pressure.

“We've had some success in ICC tournaments. Obviously, a totally different format, but that semifinal loss against England was four years ago.

“We're a totally different-looking side. They've got a lot of different players as well. So I think it's sort of a fresh opportunity, and it starts from zero.

“I'm looking forward to the challenge and hopefully we're able to learn from those semifinal victories that we've got and maybe stay a bit calmer under pressure.”

Proteas men's captain Temba Bavuma has sent a rousing message to the Proteas Women ahead of their high-stakes ICC World Cup semifinal against historical rivals England, urging the team to stick to their plan and seize the opportunity to "be part of history." Catch the action live on SuperSport tomorrow at 11:30am.

As the Proteas Women prepare for their highly anticipated ICC Women’s World Cup semifinal match against England tomorrow, (29 October), Proteas men's captain Temba Bavuma has thrown his full support behind the team, urging them to focus on legacy and execution.

The game, which takes place at the Barsapara Stadium at 11:30am (SAST), will be shown live on SuperSport, on Channel SS Cricket and SS GrandStand.

Should the Proteas defeat England tomorrow, they will secure a place in the ICC Women’s World Cup Final, something the team has never managed to do before.

Bavuma says going all the way and winning the World Cup will represent a momentous occasion for South African sport.

“I think it would add so much to South Africa’s story, both from a cricketing and sporting point of view,” said Bavuma .

“As a country, we’ve really been doing well, and seeing the women reach that point would only strengthen our legacy.”

“It would show again that we are truly champions of the world. There’s no pressure on the ladies, we’ll be right behind them, supporting them all the way. We just want them to be part of history.”

The Protea Women have navigated a rollercoaster campaign to reach the knockout stages, often displaying sublime form with bat and ball.

However, their journey was punctuated by two crushing defeats, the first of which came at the hands of their semifinal opponents, England, in the tournament’s opening game.

Adding historical weight to the encounter, England have also been responsible for eliminating the Proteas Women from a previous World Cup.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England
🇿🇦 South Africa
🇮🇳 India
🇦🇺 Australia

Four teams locked in for the #CWC25 semi-finals 🔐#SSCricket | #HereForHer pic.twitter.com/hwKXx1Q57Y

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) October 27, 2025

Despite the challenging moments, Bavuma remains confident in the squad's performance and spirit.

“I’m super proud. I think the ladies have had a really good run to get to this stage of the tournament—the knockout stages,” he said.

“Now it’s the business end of the campaign, where everything counts. I’m sure they’ll go into the game with a lot of confidence.”

“Yes, they had a tough encounter with England earlier on, but that means nothing when it comes to the playoffs.”

“We’ll be supporting them all the way, Laura Wolvaardt and the rest of the team. Hopefully, they’ll be able to perform close to their best come Wednesday.”

Drawing on his own experience leading the men's national team through high-pressure situations, Bavuma offered crucial advice on maintaining focus and consistency for the historic semifinal.

“I think in a World Cup campaign, you’re never going to be at your best all the time—there’s almost a science to losing, and sometimes that makes sense,” the captain explained.

“From a captain’s point of view, the key is motivating the players to perform as close to their best as possible.”

“By now, everyone knows their role within the team, and it’s about executing that to the best of their ability, regardless of the opponent or the occasion.”

He stressed the importance of trusting their established processes.

“Nothing really changes from that perspective; you don’t want to start doing things differently.”

“I know there’ll be a lot of us supporting the ladies and sending messages, but it’s also important that the team stays focused and keeps things controlled internally. The ladies just need to continue doing what they’ve been doing.”

Bavuma singled out opener Laura Wolvaardt for her inspiring performances throughout the tournament.

“Laura Wolvaardt has been incredible. She’s winning games and giving us memories of Marizanne Kapp from when we were growing up,” he said.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for her, and she’s handled it really well at the top.”

“It always helps when the captain is leading from the front. There are also other players who’ve stepped up and made big contributions.”

Catch the mouthwatering semifinal between England and the Protea’s live on SuperSport tomorrow (29 October) at 11:30am.

The Proteas Women kicked off their World Cup campaign with a stumble—bowled out for just 69 and crushed by England. But instead of crumbling, they came back swinging!

Led by the cool-headed captain Laura Wolvaardt and the fiery allrounder Marizanne Kapp, South Africa went on a five-match winning streak, toppling New Zealand, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. Rain tried to play spoilsport in Colombo, but the Proteas danced through the drizzle, smashing 312 runs and sealing a 150-run win via the DLS method.

Then came the showdown with Australia. It was a spin storm in Indore as Alana King tore through the Proteas line-up with a record-breaking 7/18. South Africa were bundled out for 97, but the loss didn’t dampen their spirit—it only sharpened their focus.

Now, with a semifinal clash against England looming, the Proteas Women are fired up, battle-tested, and ready to chase glory. From heartbreak to heroics, their World Cup story is far from over—and the best may be yet to come!

Rain once again played spoilsport in the Women's Cricket World Cup as the final league match between India and Bangladesh was abandoned at Navi Mumbai on Sunday.

Co-hosts India got some match practise ahead of their semifinal against holders Australia but heavy downpour in the western Indian city left them with a no result.

Chasing a revised target of 126 in 27 overs, India were 57-0 in 8.4 overs with Smriti Mandhana (34) and Amanjot Kaur (15) unbeaten when rain had the final say at the DY Patil Stadium.

It was the sixth match of the 50-over women's marquee event to be abandoned due to rain, including five washouts in the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo.

Kaur opened the innings for India after regular opener Pratika Rawal limped off the field when she twisted her ankle while fielding.

The final #CWC25 league stage fixture in Navi Mumbai has been called off owing to rain#INDvBAN | 📝: https://t.co/g716zb1JLe pic.twitter.com/d2onGQGzrH

— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) October 26, 2025

Indian bowlers led by left-arm spinner Radha Yadav and her 3-30 restricted Bangladesh to 119-9 in 27 overs.

India opted to field first after rain reduced the match to 43-overs-a-side but after play resumed Bangladesh reached 39-2 in 12.2 overs when a heavy shower again interrupted play.

After two hours and 14 minutes, play resumed with overs cut down further and Bangladesh kept losing wickets after skipper Nigar Sultana was run-out by a direct throw from Radha at backward point.

Sharmin Akhter (36) and Sobhana Mostary, who smashed 26 off 21 balls, attempted to hit back but Radha broke through to dismiss Mostary and took a wicket in each of her next two overs.

Fellow left-arm orthodox Shree Charani took two wickets and combined with Radha to make Bangladesh finish on a below-par total.

England will face South Africa in the first semifinal on Wednesday in Guwahati.

India, chasing their first World Cup title, and seven-time champions Australia will clash in Navi Mumbai on Thursday ahead of the final at the same venue on November 2.

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BANGLADESH: Sumaiya Akter, Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Nigar Sultana (capt/wk), Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Nahida Akter, Marufa Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi

INDIA: Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (capt), Jemimah Rodrigues, Uma Chetry (wk), Deepti Sharma, Radha Yadav, Shree Charani, Amanjot Kaur, Renuka Singh

An emotional Sophie Devine was given a guard of honour as the New Zealand captain played her last one-day international in Sunday's eight-wicket loss to England at the Women's World Cup, ending an ODI career spanning 19 years and 159 matches.

Allrounder Devine, 36, made her debut in October 2006 and is one of three women to complete the double of scoring 4 000 runs and taking 100 wickets in the 50-over format, along with Stafanie Taylor and Ellyse Perry.

Devine, who also represented New Zealand in field hockey before focusing on cricket, led the country to victory in last year's Twenty20 World Cup. She will continue to play in the 20-over format.

"It was about enjoying it today and going back to the roots of 19 years ago and why I play," said Devine, who scored 23 runs and dismissed Heather Knight as New Zealand ended their World Cup campaign in the group stage.

A special guard of honour for Sophie Devine as she retires from the 50-over format after 19 years 🥹🖤#ENGvNZ | #CWC25 pic.twitter.com/ID3ZMiQ4aU

— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) October 26, 2025

Devine scored nine centuries and 18 fifties, amassing 4 279 runs and 111 wickets in the format. The white-ball specialist, known for her heavy hitting, became the first woman to hit nine sixes in an ODI innings when she scored 93 runs against Pakistan in just 41 balls in 2017.

She also jointly holds the record for scoring the fastest fifty in women's T20 internationals with Australia's Phoebe Litchfield, both having completed half-centuries in just 18 balls.

"Enjoy it while it lasts but realise cricket is just a game. Not fully done just yet so sure I'll be annoying people around the grounds," Devine added.

England recorded a eight-wicket win to beat New Zealand in their ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 clash at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

The result saw England leap South Africa in the second position after their fifth win of the campaign which took their tally to 11 points. Meanwhile, New Zealand slipped to sixth after their fourth defeat.

Chasing 169, England made it look effortless. Amy Jones (86*) anchored the innings with a composed knock well supported by Tammy Beaumont (40) and Heather Knight (33). For New Zealand, Leah Tahuhu and Sophie Devine - playing her final ODI - picked up a wicket each.

England openers Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont provided the team with a solid start in their ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 clash against New Zealand with 169 to chase.

Jones and Beaumont put on a 75-run partnership for the opening stand to keep the pressure on New Zealand's bowlers before Leah Tahuhu struck with the wicket of Beaumont. Beaumont was struck on the pads while taking a big stride to defend and the umpire wasted no time in giving her out.

After New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat, England produced a strong fightback to bundle New Zealand out for 168 in under 40 overs during their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup clash. Georgia Plimmer (43) was the top scorer while Melie Kerr (35) and Sophie Devine (23) also made vital contributions but once the trio departed, the White Ferns struggled to get going as they lost regular wickets.

Linsey Smith (3/30) ended as the top performer with the ball. She was well supported by Alice Capsey (2/31), Charlie Dean (1/21) and Sophie Ecclestone (1/4), who together choked the scoring rate and ran through the middle order. In total, England’s spinners took seven of the nine wickets while captain Nat Sciver-Brunt (2/34) also contributed.

For much of the first half, it looked like New Zealand were in control after recovering from the early loss of Suzie Bates. Georgia Plimmer and Amelia Kerr steadied the innings with a solid 68-run stand for the second wicket, taking their side to 89/1 and laying the platform for a competitive total.

However, the game completely changed once that partnership was broken. From 89/1, New Zealand collapsed dramatically, losing nine wickets for just 79 runs and failing to even bat out their 50 overs. They ended up with their lowest total of this World Cup.

England made some early breakthroughs in their ICC Women's Cricket World Cup match against New Zealand in Vizag as star spinner Sophie Ecclestone suffered an injury scare.

Ecclestone was forced from the field after the second over with a shoulder concern following a dive in the field. She was looked at by medical staff, but returned to the field after the opening drinks break.

She returned to the bowling crease and claimed the big wicket of Brooke Halliday. However she had to leave the field post that for further treatment. The left arm spinner experienced more discomfort and as a precaution took no further part in England's bowling innings.

Alice Capsey further piled on the pressure with a brilliant catch and bowled to dismiss Maddy Green, while New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine fell to her England counterpart.

England’s spinners finally found their rhythm after the 25-over mark, helping the team restrict New Zealand to under 200 despite a sloppy start.

The White Ferns are aiming to send out Sophie Devine on a high note in what will be her final ODI for her country.

New Zealand are keen to finish their frustrating tournament in winning fashion so they overtake Sri Lanka and claim fifth place on the standings.

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ENGLAND: Amy Jones (wk), Tammy Beaumont, Heather Knight, Nat Sciver-Brunt (capt), Sophia Dunkley, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell

NEW ZEALAND: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (capt), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson

The reigning World Cup champions have locked in a date with India in Navi Mumbai on Thursday, and the planning for that match has already begun.

Australia are hoping to regain captain Alyssa Healy for their knockout semifinal clash against India at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup on Thursday.

The Aussies defeated South Africa by seven wickets in Indore on Saturday and have some valuable time off before their semifinal contest against the tournament hosts.

Those extra days will provide Healy the chance to recover from her calf injury and Australia coach Shelley Nitschke is hoping her skipper will be fit to feature.

"She wasn't quite up to it tonight but she'll continue to be assessed," Nitschke said.

"We're really hopeful for the semi, but still a few days to play out before that. And we're hopeful again, she'll just continue to be assessed the closer we get to that."

Australia registered a three-wicket victory over India during the league stage of the World Cup, with Healy leading the way with a brilliant innings of 142 as the Aussies chased down their mammoth victory target of 331 with one over remaining.

NITSCHKE ON KING

Spinner Alana King went wicketless in that contest and only bowled six overs as India's batters scored freely against her, with Nitschke admitting she may use the right-armer differently this time around.

"I think it's just sort of seeing when the game plays out," the Australian coach said of King following her seven-wicket haul against the Proteas.

"She obviously doesn't come on a lot in the Powerplay. So, once you sort of get through that, it's then about the batters that are in the matchups and the stage of the game and who's going to be the best person to bowl."

And while India will have a parochial home crowd cheering them on in the knockout semifinal in Navi Mumbai, the venue holds no fears for the Aussies following their 2-1 T20I series triumph over Harmanpreet Kaur's side at the venue at the start of last year.

“We have played a lot at that ground and against India," Australia vice-captain Tahlia McGrath said.

"It’s a knockout game, you have to be on. Qualifying, job one done, now to job two – the knockouts.”

The pathway to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 summit clash becomes clear after Australia’s win over South Africa in their final group-stage game.

Australia ensured a top-spot finish with a thumping win over South Africa in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 clash.

A triumph for the defending champions confirms that they will play hosts India (fourth in the standings) in the second semifinal of the competition on October 30 at Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

The fixture will mark the first occasion of the two teams featuring in the Cricket World Cup semifinal since their clash in the final four stage of the tournament back in 2017.

Meanwhile, South Africa will now lock horns against England in the other semifinal at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on 29 October.

While the Proteas currently occupy the second position in the points table, England are third with a game in hand.

The winners of both semifinals will play each other for the Cricket World Cup trophy on 2 November.

RECORD-BREAKING KING

Earlier on Saturday in Indore, the defending champions chased down the target of 98 with seven wickets in hand, after a spectacular record-breaking bowling display from Alana King.

The win marked their sixth in the league stage to go with a shared point from their washout against Sri Lanka.

The seven-time winners remain the only unbeaten team at this year’s marquee tournament. In their previous meeting against India in Indore during the league stage, Australia had chased down a record total to solidify their position in the standings.

Meanwhile, India walk into the semis on the back of an all-round display against New Zealand that punched their ticket to the knockouts.

The hosts will face Bangladesh on Sunday to mark the end of their league stage campaign. England on the other hand, will face off against New Zealand before the semis.

Australia’s women’s cricket team delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa by seven wickets in a one-sided ICC Women’s World Cup encounter at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Saturday.

The star of the show was legspinner Alana King, whose sensational spell of 7-18 in seven overs not only dismantled the South African batting lineup but also etched her name into the record books, after Australia had sent the Proteas in to bat first.

“It was not the way we wanted to end the group stages. We have done well in this tournament. It is not the worst thing in the world and it was a decent wicket to bat on, but King was brilliant, she bowled very well,” said Laura Wolvaardt.

King’s figures are now the best ever by an Australian in one-day internationals (ODIs) and the finest bowling performance in Women’s World Cup history. Her devastating spell left South Africa reeling, as they were bundled out for a paltry 97 in just 24 overs.

Top of the points table 🇦🇺🔝

Australia end their #CWC25 league phase with six wins from seven 👏#HereForHer | #SSCricket pic.twitter.com/k22TcJ0NZU

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) October 25, 2025

“I was expecting it to slide on a little bit more with the drizzle that was around in the first innings, but I was happy with what I extracted,” said King post-match.

South Africa’s innings never really got going. Only three batters managed to reach double figures. Wolvaardt provided a glimmer of hope with a brisk 31 off 25 balls, laced with seven boundaries. She shared an opening stand of 32 with Tazmin Brits, who could only manage six runs before being trapped LBW by Kim Garth (5-2-21-1).

“I am timing it well, but we will have to forget about today and focus on the semifinal,” added the South African captain.

PROTEAS STRUGGLE WITH THE BAT

Wolvaardt was the first to fall, chipping a delivery from Megan Schutt (5-2-21-1) straight to King to short mid-wicket. From there, the innings unravelled rapidly. Suné Luus (6) was caught at mid-wicket by Annabel Sutherland off King, while Annarie Derckson (5) was bowled comprehensively.

“It was good fun and pretty awesome,” said Australia’s captain, Tahlia McGrath. “I just wanted to get the ball in her hand and she was relentless. I am super happy for her”, added the Australian skipper.

Marizanne Kapp fell for a duck, caught at backward point by Garth off King, with Chloe Tryon following immediately, gifting King a double-wicket maiden by hitting straight to short mid-wicket for a first-ball duck.

“It was down to variation and I was just trying to give it a rip and get as much turn as I could,” added player of the match King.

What a performance by Alana King 👏

She takes the first-ever seven-wicket haul at the Women's ODI World Cup 🔥

📺 Stream #CWC25 on DStv: https://t.co/rM90YyQxaw#HereForHer | #SSCricket pic.twitter.com/otz3BnmIHy

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) October 25, 2025

Masabata Klaas was bowled for four, and although Sinalo Jafta tried to counterattack with an entertaining 29 off 17 balls (including seven boundaries), she too was bowled by King. Nadine de Klerk (14), who added 21 runs with Jafta, met the same fate. The innings ended with Ayabonga Khaka being bowled by Ashleigh Gardner (4-0-19-1), leaving Nonkululeko Mlaba stranded on 1 not out.

Australia’s bowlers were clinical and disciplined, conceding just one wide in the entire innings.

“We tweaked our plans a little bit, stayed calm and then took crucial wickets,” added McGrath.

In reply, South Africa briefly threatened to make a contest of it. Kapp (4-3-11-1) struck early, having Phoebe Litchfield caught at first slip by Tryon for five. Klaas (3-0-14-1) then removed Ellyse Perry for a duck with a stunning catch by De Klerk at backward point.

However, any hopes of a South African comeback were dashed by a composed and fluent partnership between Georgia Voll (38 not out) and Beth Mooney (42). The pair added 76 runs for the third wicket in just 67 balls, taking the game away from the visitors.

Voll carried her bat to the finish, striking seven boundaries from 38 balls. Mooney was the aggressor, with a fluent 42 off 41 deliveries, striking six fours before being dismissed by De Klerk (3-0-13-1), caught by Wolvaardt at short extra-cover just before the target was reached.

“We wanted to bat with some intent in the chase. Few lost a few early wickets but it was awesome to get the job done and move on to semifinals,” ended McGrath.

Annabel Sutherland came in and finished the job in style, hitting two boundaries in her four-ball cameo to seal the win. Australia reached the target in just 16.5 overs, ending on 98 for 3.

Australia will now face India in the second semifinal on Thursday, while the Proteas will face off against England, a team they lost to 10 wickets in their tournament opener, on Wednesday in the first semifinal.

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AUSTRALIA WOMEN: Georgia Voll, Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Annabel Sutherland, Beth Mooney (wk), Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath (capt), Georgia Wareham, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt

SOUTH AFRICA WOMEN: Laura Wolvaardt (capt), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Annerie Dercksen, Marizanne Kapp, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba

Indian police have arrested a man accused of stalking and inappropriately touching two Australian cricketers participating in the ICC Women's World Cup, officials said on Saturday.

The incident happened in the central Indian city of Indore on Thursday morning when the two players left their hotel to go to a cafe, police officer Rajesh Dandotiya told AFP.

"We received a complaint from the Australian team security and immediately acted, registered a case and identified the accused within six hours," Dandotiya said.

Violence against women remains a chronic issue in the world's most populous country, where an average of nearly 90 rapes a day were reported in 2022.

Dandotiya said the 30-year-old man who was arrested has a criminal record. The man followed the players and approached them "for a bad touch" about 800 metres from their hotel.

The two players were not identified by Indian police or Cricket Australia, which confirmed the incident.

"The matter was reported by team security to police, who are handling the matter," Cricket Australia said in a statement.

The Times of India newspaper reported that the team's security manager received a distress message from one of the cricketers that said "... there is a guy following us trying to grab us".

Team officials were informed and went to their location to assist the players, the paper said.

A police patrol then escorted the players safely back to the team's hotel.

Police said they have opened a case against the arrested man for "inappropriate behaviour and stalking".

Australia were playing South Africa in their pool match in Indore on Saturday.

India has made strides towards gender equality and women's empowerment in recent years, but safety for women remains a serious concern.

Centuries from Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal powered India to a 53-run win over New Zealand and into the Women's World Cup semifinals on Thursday.

Defending champions Australia, England and South Africa have already booked their berth in the semifinals of the eight-nation tournament.

Openers Mandhana and Rawal put on 212 runs as India posted a mammoth 340-3 in 49 overs at a rain-hit DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

The left-handed Mandhana hit 109 and Rawal struck 122 as the pair started cautiously but soon bossed the opposition bowling with boundaries galore.

In reply, New Zealand finished on 271-8, chasing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs to bow out of the semi-final race with a match remaining.

India book their place in the #CWC25 semi-finals ✅🏆#HereForHer | #SSCricket pic.twitter.com/S4F4VJcKRL

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) October 23, 2025

The White Ferns, led by Sophie Devine, have been unlucky with two abandoned matches due to rain in Colombo.

Co-hosts India bounced back from three defeats in a row to put up a clinical all-round show in their bid to win their first World Cup title.

Mandhana and Rawal took the match away from New Zealand during their marathon stand -- India's best for any wicket in the women's ODI World Cup.

Mandhana reached 100 with a single off Jess Kerr for her fifth hundred in 2025 and go level with South Africa's Tazmin Brits for most tons in women's ODI matches in a calender year.

She finally fell to Suzie Bates and walked off to a standing ovation from a raucous home crowd. The star batter hit 10 fours and four sixes in her 95-ball knock.

Rawal kept up the charge with Jemimah Rodrigues, who made 76 not out, to raise her maiden World Cup hundred and the pair put on 76 runs to further push New Zealand on the backfoot.

Amelia Kerr dismissed Rawal with her leg-spin but Rodrigues stood firm and hit regular boundaries.

Rain interrupted India's innings after the 48th over and it took over 90 minutes for the 49th and the last over to be bowled.

New Zealand's reply was delayed due to light drizzle and lost an early wicket when Bates departed for one off medium-pace bowler Kranti Goud in the second over.

Georgia Plimmer hit back in her 25-ball 30 but fell bowled to Renuka Singh's medium-pace bowling.

Renuka struck again to send back Devine bowled for six as New Zealand slipped to 59-3.

A late push by Brooke Halliday, who hit 81, and Isabella Gaze, who made an unbeaten 65, infused some life into the chase in their sixth-wicket stand of 72 but the asking rate always kept India in control.

---

INDIA: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Uma Chetry, Renuka Singh Thakur, Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Sree Charani, Radha Yadav, Amanjot Kaur, Arundhati Reddy, Kranti Gaud. Reserves: Tejal Hasabnis, Prema Rawat, Priya Mishra, Minnu Mani, Sayali Satghare

NEW ZEALAND: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Hannah Rowe, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu

A brief glance at the group-stage log at the Women’s World Cup might suggest that most pre-tournament predictions are materialising as envisaged but the reality is rarely that simple. 

India started as favourites on home soil but nerves have played their part in three pulsating losses to Australia – in a record run-chase – in the game of the tournament so far, to South Africa and again by just four runs to England.

Australia, England and the Proteas Women all qualified for the semifinals with games to spare leaving India and New Zealand to face each other in a straight quarterfinal knockout on Thursday for a semifinal place against the winner of the final group match between Australia and South Africa on Saturday.

New Zealand brace for a pivotal group-stage encounter against India 💪

Grab you tickets to catch the action LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/GfxlP1DQHD#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/SfJLmnCTY6

— ICC (@ICC) October 22, 2025

India gear up for a crunch clash against New Zealand in #CWC25 👊

Grab your #INDvNZ tickets now ➡️ https://t.co/GfxlP1DQHD pic.twitter.com/pBuIMoy3MI

— ICC (@ICC) October 22, 2025

England began with a stunning victory against South Africa, dismissing Laura Wolvaardt’s team for just 69 and knocking off the runs in under 15 overs but it proved to be a portent for the future for neither team.

Whereas the Proteas reeled off five consecutive victories with increasing ease and precision, England have coughed and stuttered, squeezing past India by just four runs – courtesy of more Indian nerves – and escaping almost certain defeat against Pakistan having limped to 133-9 before rain washed the match away with Pakistan 34-0 after six overs.

DEPTH AND CONSISTENCY

While Australia are unquestionably the team to beat (as always), South Africa owe their improving form to wider range of players than any other team.

The Aussies have the highest run-scorer in the tournament so far in captain Alyssa Healy who has two centuries in her 294 from six games and the highest wicket-taker, seam bowling allrounder, Annabel Sutherland, with 15 so far.

There is no shortage of allrounders in the Australian team but there are even more in South Africa’s, led by the best in the world, Marizanne Kapp, and player of the tournament so far, Nadine de Klerk.

Wolvaardt is just 24 run behind Healy heading into Saturday’s match with three 50s in her 270 at an average of 54, but no less than five other batters have scored 130+ runs, more than any other team.

De Klerk’s 165 at average of 82.5 is eye-catching but even more impressive is the strike rate of 150.

Her performance against India ranks among South Africa’s finest, men or women.

Having slipped to 142-6 in pursuit of 252 against India, Chloe Tryon (49) steadied the innings before De Klerk hammered a glorious 84* from just 54 balls with eight fours and five sixes to seal a famous three-wicket victory.

Nadine de Klerk's match-winning knock in Visakhapatnam 🤩🔥#HereForHer | #CWC25 pic.twitter.com/apMkMfQMmZ

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) October 9, 2025

Kapp, too, has 162 runs so far with opener Tazmin Brits (161), Sune Luus (151) and Tryon 134 all contributing towards victories.

Depth and consistency breeds confidence even more than brilliant individual performances.

Having said that, the Proteas are more than happy to rely on the individual brilliance of left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba with the ball.

Her 11 wickets are way ahead of Kapp (6), Tryon and De Klerk, who have five apiece, but unlike most other teams, the Proteas have used all of their 15 players ensuring freshness and valuable game time whoever is required for the final two or three matches.

New Zealand may yet spoil India’s party. They might even have done so already had they not suffered two washouts in monsoon-hit Colombo, co-host only because geo-politics mean that Pakistan cannot play in India.

But questions have been legitimately asked about why so many matches were scheduled in the Sri Lankan capital at such a meteorologically risky time of year.

The semifinals take place on Wednesday and Thursday next week (29 & 30 Octpber) with the final on Sunday, 2 November.

Ashleigh Gardner and Annabel Sutherland starred with the bat as unbeaten Australia completed a convincing six-wicket win over Ashes rivals England on Wednesday in the Women's World Cup.

Playing without skipper Alyssa Healy, who missed out due to a calf injury, holders Australia restricted England to 244-9 with Sutherland taking three wickets in Indore.

Sutherland then hit 98 and put on an unbeaten fifth-wicket stand of 180 with Gardner (104) to lift Australia from a precarious 68-4 and carry them to victory in 40.3 overs.

Gardner made her second ton of the tournament and then swiftly celebrated in style by hitting the winning boundary to condemn England to their first defeat in this edition of the World Cup.

A clinical showing from Australia saw them overcome England for their fifth win at #CWC25 👊🇦🇺#AUSvENG pic.twitter.com/0tTPJxoVku

— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) October 22, 2025

Seven-time winners Australia, England and South Africa have already qualified for the semifinals of the women's 50-over marquee tournament being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

India, New Zealand and Sri Lanka are fighting to grab the one remaining semifinal spot.

For Australia, it was their fifth victory in six matches with one game washed out as they top the table on 11 points.

Defending 245, England's bowlers put Australia on the back foot when Linsey Smith dismissed Georgia Voll and Ellyse Perry in quick succession after Lauren Bell bowled Phoebe Litchfield with the third ball of the innings.

Sophie Ecclestone then struck to remove the dangerous Beth Mooney and give England, who lost 16-0 to Australia in the Ashes earlier this year, real hope of a statement win.

Sutherland and Gardner then dug in to put the chase back on track and, once set, took on the England bowling with regular boundaries.

Second #CWC25 century for Ash Gardner in the chase against England 🔥

Watch @cricketworldcup LIVE in your region, broadcast details 📺 https://t.co/MNSEqhJhcB pic.twitter.com/muNItgDNn9

— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) October 22, 2025

Earlier, England got off to a flying start with Tammy Beaumont, who made 78, leading the batting charge with a string of boundaries, including a hat-trick of fours off Kim Garth in the eighth over.

But all-rounder Sutherland came into the attack and struck in the next over as she bowled wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones for 18 to end a brisk opening stand of 55.

Beaumont kept up the momentum with Heather Knight but Sophie Molineux broke through with her left-arm spin to send back Knight lbw for 20.

Beaumont raised her fifty with a boundary off Garth but soon England lost their way when skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt fell to Alana King's leg-spin and Sutherland took down Beaumont.

Alice Capsey and Charlie Dean (26) counter-attacked in their seventh-wicket partnership of 61.

Molineux then dismissed Capsey for 38 and two balls later Gardner had Dean out as England settled for a below-par total at a venue that has produced big runs and a highest of 326 by Australia in this tournament.

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AUSTRALIA: Tahlia McGrath(c), Georgia Voll, Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Sophie Molineux, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt

ENGLAND: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Tammy Beaumont, Amy Jones, Heather Knight, Sophia Dunkley, Emma Lamb, Alice Capsey, Charlotte Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell

An all-round performance from Marizanne Kapp helped the Proteas women clinch a thumping, farcical weather affected 150-run win over Pakistan in their World Cup pool match at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Tuesday night, to move top of the log with one game remaining.

Their fifth straight win from six games sees the Proteas on 10 points, one ahead of Australia and England, who both have played five, but face each other in Indore on Wednesday.

It is an amazing turnaround after the Proteas were bowled out for 69 and hammered by 10 wickets by England in their tournament opener, but have responded by winning everything since, starting against New Zealand, followed by India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and now Pakistan.

Their latest match was an incredibly frustrating affair as they faced multiple rain delays throughout both innings, before the Proteas were forced to rush through eight overs to constitute a game, as Pakistan closed their insurmountable chase on 83-7 off 20 overs to lose on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method.

🚨 MATCH RESULT 🚨

Dominant. Decisive. Deserving. 💫 #TheProteas Women storm to the top of the #CWC25 table with a commanding victory over Pakistan Women! 🇿🇦🔥 #Unbreakable pic.twitter.com/SeYuwfZchU

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) October 21, 2025

But the match was won in the first innings, when the Proteas were powered by half centuries from captain Laura Wolvaardt, Kapp, Sune Luus and a cameo from Nadine de Klerk that saw them amass a huge 312-9 in their 40 overs.

“It (batting) was pretty good. Scoring 312 in 40 overs is really nice for us. Obviously performances all-round. Kappie was amazing in the middle, I think Nadine was sensational at the end, and it’s just really nice seeing everyone chipping in at different phases in the line-up,” said Wolvaardt after the match.

“We thought our seamers would be big up front (in the chase). When we were batting there was bit in it for the seam up front, so we thought Kappie and Aya would be good, they were excellent and taking those few wickets up front really shifted that Duckworth-Lewis heavily in our favour going back after the rain.”

RAIN, RAIN AND MORE RAIN

Pakistan were set a DLS adjusted target of 306 in their 40 over chase, which was already an unlikely task, before being reduced to 35-4 after 10 overs.

What followed was then farcical scenes as the players walked on and off the field multiple times, as the rain stopped and started, with Pakistan set targets of 299 off 37 overs, 270 off 27 and 262 off 25.

Play finally restarted with Pakistan moving to 48-4 after 12 overs, when rain again returned and sending players off, with them returning just in time for a final restart with Pakistan needing an impossible 234 off 20 overs to win, which they ended well short of.

Kapp was the star of the show, picking up 3-20 in five overs to go with her unbeaten half century, while Nondumiso Shangase, 2-19, and Ayabonga Khaka, 1-14, also picked up wickets.

A stellar all-around display from Marizanne Kapp! 👏

An unbeaten 68* off 43 balls with the bat and 3/20 in 5 overs with the ball. 💥

A complete performance that earns her the Aramco Player of the Match award. 🏅 #Unbreakable #CWC25 pic.twitter.com/HHiLSH8xVN

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) October 21, 2025

SA BATTERS DELIVER

At the start of the match, Pakistan won the toss and sent the Proteas in to bat, but it seemed to be the wrong call with the South Africans in a no-nonsense mood.

Wolvaardt top scored and was unlucky to miss out on a century, hitting two sixes and 10 fours in her 82-ball 90, while Luus backed her up at the top of the order with 61 off 59 balls (8x4; 2x6).

Kapp was brilliant down the back end, cracking an unbeaten 68 off 43 (6x4; 3x6), and De Klerk was at her brutal best hammering four sixes and three fours in her 41 off just 16.

Just two overs were possible at the start of the innings, which also saw the back of Tazmin Brits for a fourth-ball duck, as Fatima Sana got one to nip away and catch the edge, with Natalia Pervaiz completing the catch in the slips.

The rain then came down, chasing the players from the field, and after an over two-hour break they returned, the game having been reduced to 40-overs-a-side, with Wolvaardt and Luus immediately setting about a strong 118-run second wicket stand to set the platform.

Wolvaardt was initially the aggressor, before Luus, who had started slowly, took charge and moved ahead of her captain as both brought up their half centuries while pushing their side past 100, when Luus hit Nashra Sandhu straight to Diana Baig at extra cover with the score 123-2 after 17 overs.

That became 148-3 when Annerie Dercksen (9) was run out, bringing Kapp to the crease, and she shared in a 64-run partnership with Wolvaardt as the Proteas crossed 200.

Wolvaardt finally fell in the 31st over, coming down the wicket at Sandhu, but missed the ball that spun away, with wicketkeeper Sidra Nawaz catching and whipping off the bails to send her on her way.

Karabo Meso edged Sandhu to Nawaz at the end of the over for a third-ball duck, with the score 212-5, while Chloe Tryon, 21 off 16 (3x4), knocked a few boundaries before edging Sadia Iqbal behind, leaving them on 253-6 after 36 overs.

It was then the De Klerk and Kapp show as they shared in a blitz 52-run stand off just 20 balls, followed by an action packed last over that saw a four, a six and three wickets to end a breathtaking first half of the match.

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SOUTH AFRICA: Laura Wolvaardt (capt), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Annerie Dercksen, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Karabo Meso (wk), Nondumiso Shangase, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba

PAKISTAN: Omaima Sohail, Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Fatima Sana (capt), Sidra Nawaz (wk), Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal

Sri Lanka snatched victory from the jaws of defeat to record their first win of the Women's Cricket World Cup, edging out Bangladesh by seven runs in a nerve jangling finish in Navi Mumbai on Monday.

With Bangladesh cruising and only nine needed off the final over with five wickets in hand, having mustered just three runs off the penultimate over, skipper Chamari Athapaththu took the ball herself and turned the game on its head.

Four wickets tumbled in four balls as Bangladesh collapsed, losing five wickets for just two runs.

Athapaththu, calm amid the storm, finished with career-best figures of 4-42.

Brilliant spell by Chamari Athapaththu leads Sri Lanka Women to a thrilling 7-run victory💥🇱🇰#SLvBAN #CWC2025 pic.twitter.com/LN9wj6CaBG

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) October 20, 2025

The drama began with Rabeya Khan trapped leg-before off the first ball, followed by a run-out next delivery.

Then, Bangladesh's hopes sank when their captain Nigar Sultana danced down the track only to find long-off lurking.

When Marufa Akter was adjudged lbw next ball, Athapaththu had conjured the unthinkable, defending nine with a single run conceded in the over.

"We handled the pressure well. We knew that if we took the game deep, teams could crumble," Athapaththu said. "It wasn't perfect, batting collapses and dropped catches hurt us, but luck smiled at us today."

For once, fortune favoured Sri Lanka, whose campaign had been marred by rain, missed chances and misfiring batters.

Hasini Perera, who struck her maiden ODI half-century, made 85 off 99 balls, peppered with 13 fours and a six.

She was the backbone of Sri Lanka's 202 all out as she reached the milestone of 1 000 runs in ODIs.

Hasini Perera's resolute knock against Bangladesh set the base for Sri Lanka's thrilling win in #CWC25 👊

She wins the @aramco POTM award for her effort 👏 pic.twitter.com/FvTDrYzXT3

— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) October 20, 2025

A 74-run partnership with Nilakshika de Silva gave Sri Lanka a solid launch pad, before another collapse saw six wickets fall for 28 run.

Even so, the Sri Lankans held their nerve in the death overs to seal the win and climb to sixth in the standings.

With four points, they are level with New Zealand and India, although will need results to go in their favour to grab the last semi-final spot.

Australia, South Africa and England have already booked their places in the last four.

"We kept losing wickets at crucial times," admitted Bangladesh skipper Sultana, whose fighting 77 was in vain as her side were eliminated.

"I tried to take the pressure off with a boundary, but it just didn't come off."

---

SRI LANKA: Chamari Athapaththu, Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Imesha Dulani, Dewmi Vihanga, Piumi Wathsala, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Dasanayaka, Udeshika Prabodani, Malki Madara, Achini Kulasooriya.

BANGLADESH: Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter, Farzana Haque, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, Sumaiya Akter

Four-time champions England booked their ticket to the semifinals of the Women’s World Cup after pulling off a nail-biting four-run win over hosts India in Indore on Sunday.

England had posted a competitive 288-8 thanks to Heather Knight’s century and held their nerve in the field to defend it, despite their bowling, usually their strong suit, being a touch off colour.

India looked to be cruising towards victory, needing just 62 runs off the last 10 overs with seven wickets in hand.

But the dismissal of Smriti Mandhana turned the tide, as scoreboard pressure crept in and dot balls piled up.

Soon after, Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma departed in quick succession, leaving the tail high and dry.

Reckless batting cost India dear. Mandhana’s downfall opened the floodgates when she danced down the track to left-arm spinner Linsey Smith but failed to clear long-off.

Then, after reaching her half-century, Deepti Sharma perished trying to take on Sophie Ecclestone, a slog sweep that found deep mid-wicket to perfection.

From there, the writing was on the wall.

That winning feeling! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/x8dNNEM8hn

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 19, 2025

“We probably needed 300, but we did well to pull things back and I’m very happy. Didn’t contribute much in the last couple of games, so it felt good to come up with a match-winning hundred,” said Knight, whose classy 109 off 91 balls, laced with 15 fours and a six, was the backbone of England’s innings.

Heather Knight's fastest ODI century to date 👏

Queen. pic.twitter.com/ETXQQxMIUl

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 19, 2025

England’s openers gave them a brisk start with 73 runs for the first wicket before Knight joined captain Nat Sciver-Brunt in a 113-run stand that kept the scoreboard ticking.

At one stage, England looked set to go past 300, but Knight’s run out attempting a second run triggered a slowdown, as India tightened the screws and conceded only 74 runs in the final 10 overs.

Deepti Sharma was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with four wickets.

It was India’s third successive defeat leaving their next clash against New Zealand a virtual knockout.

With both teams locked on four points, it’s a case of do or die to stay in the hunt for the last semifinal berth, with Australia, England and South Africa already safely through.

England, meanwhile, have been clinical, through to the semis with two games in hand.

They sit second on the table with nine points, level with defending champions Australia, separated only by a whisker in Net Run Rate.

“Not sure how we lost this game. We had it in the bag. We’ve worked so hard and when the last five overs slip away from you, it’s heartbreaking. This is the third straight game we’ve lost after coming so close,” lamented India captain Harmanpreet Kaur.

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INDIA: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Uma Chetry, Renuka Singh Thakur, Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Sree Charani, Radha Yadav, Amanjot Kaur, Arundhati Reddy, Kranti Gaud.

ENGLAND: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Em Arlott, Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Sarah Glenn, Amy Jones, Heather Knight, Emma Lamb, Linsey Smith, Danni Wyatt-Hodge.

Colombo's wet spell showed no signs of letting up as the Women's World Cup fixture between Pakistan and New Zealand was washed out at R. Premadasa Stadium on Saturday.

It was deja vu in the Sri Lankan capital as a fourth game in the tournament had to be abandoned due to rain, while several others have been stop-start affairs thanks to the fickle Colombo skies.

The previous day's contest between Sri Lanka and South Africa was reduced to 20 overs and, despite the tireless work of the ground staff, only 25 overs were possible in the Pakistan–New Zealand encounter.

Put in to bat, Pakistan never found their rhythm and limped to 92-5 when the heavens opened once again.

The players dashed indoors as lightning flashed across the skyline and match officials advised the ground staff to steer clear of the field.

Earlier, Pakistan had been 52-3 when the first interruption arrived and play resumed with the game trimmed to 46 overs. But there was to be no resumption after the second rain break.

"We were in a decent position and we were waiting for the rain to stop. This is disappointing as you wait for four years to play a World Cup. It's a real shame. Now we have to win both our remaining games," New Zealand captain Sophie Devine said.

For New Zealand, both their Colombo games were abandoned due to rain with their earlier encounter against Sri Lanka also being affected.

The White Ferns now have four points, level with India, though the latter occupy fourth spot courtesy of a superior Net Run Rate and have a game in hand.

Pakistan, meanwhile, remain winless, three defeats and two no-results tell the sorry tale of their campaign.

New Zealand's attack made early inroads, with seamers Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu hitting the right areas to deliver the initial breakthroughs.

The spinners then tightened the screws, with Amelia Kerr and Eden Carson sharing the spoils.

The White Ferns were razor-sharp in the field too. Veteran Suzie Bates plucked a stunner at mid-wicket to send back opener Muneeba Ali (22), while Carson threw herself full length at point to pouch Sidra Amin (nine).

"We were looking at something like 180. We know we have some good spinners and we could have put press

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NEW ZEALAND: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Hannah Rowe, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu

PAKISTAN: Fatima Sana (c), Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (vc), Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Nashra Sundhu, Natalia Parvaiz, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Sadaf Shamas, Sadia Iqbal, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz, Syeda Aroob Shah.

The skies over Colombo may have threatened to wash out the game, but Laura Wolvaardt brought the sunshine with a captain’s knock that lit up South Africa’s chase against Sri Lanka.

After a five-hour rain delay turned the ICC Women’s World Cup clash into a 20-over shootout, Wolvaardt adapted instantly. With the mindset of a T20 opener, she crafted a flawless 60 off 49 balls*, guiding South Africa to a 10-wicket win with partner Tazmin Brits (55*). Their 125-run stand was a statement of intent, executed with calm precision and aggressive flair.

Laura Wolvaardt shows the way with a fiery, unbeaten fifty in South Africa’s successful chase over Sri Lanka 👏

She wins the @aramco POTM 🎖️#CWC25 | #SAvSL pic.twitter.com/a0r69WL0GB

— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) October 17, 2025

“We just treated it like a T20 game,” Wolvaardt said post-match. “It was frustrating sitting out for hours, but once we got going, we wanted to get ahead early and not leave it late.”

Her innings was a blend of timing, placement, and leadership—especially crucial given South Africa’s previous struggles with opening partnerships. This time, she led from the front, ensuring no late drama and securing two vital points that pushed the Proteas closer to the semifinals.

South Africa have one foot in the semifinals of the 2025 Women’s World Cup after opening pair Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits produced a sparkling display, demolishing co-hosts Sri Lanka by 10 wickets in Colombo on Friday.

The Proteas cruised to a faultless pursuit of a revised 121 victory target, with 31 balls to spare of their shortened 20-over innings, moving up to second place on the log, a point behind already-qualified Australia.

A win over Pakistan at the same venue on Tuesday would seal the deal for Wolvaardt’s side. The result also leaves winless Sri Lanka staring down the barrel of an early tournament exit, with home advantage counting for little at the rain-ravaged R Premadasa Stadium.

Captain Wolvaardt was delighted to put her side’s top-order troubles to one side, saying: “In a World Cup, it's a bit different, a lot of preparation as a captain. But when I'm out there, I'm just watching the ball and trying to hit it as well as I can.

“We haven't had the best tournament as an opening pair, so it was great to put on a 100-run stand.”

The skipper used her feet smartly from the off, breaking cover from her crease to disrupt the opening pair of Sugandika Kumari and Malki Madara as she negated some hooping swing and skid off the pitch in muggy conditions.

Kavisha Dilhari summed up her nation’s luckless night, pinning Brits on the crease with her first delivery, only for the umpire’s call to save the 34-year-old on review after the original appeal was turned down. Being slapped back over her head for four the very next ball hardly helped, either.

The South African pair snapped straight back into their rhythm, and they broke the back of their chase in the 13th over.

COMPOSURE AND CONFIDENCE

First, Wolvaardt turned a full Kaveesha delivery into a full toss, caning it through cover for four, before repeating the dose through midwicket to bring up her second half-century of the competition. It had taken just 41 balls and thrust her side into the home straight, before Brits joined the party with a pair of booming boundaries of her own down the ground.

And she saved the best for last, crashing her second six of the evening over the ropes to bring up her own 50 and seal victory with more than five overs to spare.

Defeated captain Chamari Athapaththu was phlegmatic about another damaging day for her charges, adding: “The ball was too hard to grip, especially for the spinners. And we are dependent on spin, so we struggled. These kinds of things happened in the middle, unfortunately.

“As a team, we'll stick with our plans in the next game. As a team, we have to play positive and fearless cricket, and we need to take the smart options as a batting unit."

Torrential rain has blighted the World Cup co-hosts throughout the round-robin phase and it was no different here, with the sides earlier forced off for over five hours in what began to look like another lost cause in the Sri Lankan capital.

Having won the toss and elected to bat despite their opponents’ chasing prowess, Sri Lanka had earlier made it to 46-2 when the weather closed in after 12 overs. Masabata Klass claimed both wickets after Vishmi Gunaratne had retired hurt.

A long-awaited return then saw them limp to 105-7, as Nonkululeko Mlaba continued her impressive tournament with a three-wicket haul. It set the Proteas up for what could have been a nervy chase given the state of the log, the soggy conditions and a final-game date with favourites Australia looming, but Wolvaardt and Brits blew it out of the water.

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SOUTH AFRICA: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Marizanne Kapp, Tazmin Brits, Sinalo Jafta, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Annerie Dercksen, Anneke Bosch, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase. Reserves: Miane Smit

SRI LANKA: Chamari Athapaththu, Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, Imesha Dulani, Dewmi Vihanga, Piumi Wathsala, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Dasanayaka, Udeshika Prabodani, Malki Madara, Achini Kulasooriya. Reserve: Inoshi Fernando