South Africa’s batting might was on full display as they posted a formidable 319 for seven, the second-highest total in a World Cup knockout game, to overwhelm England by 125 runs. The win secures their first-ever 50-over World Cup final appearance.
The innings was built around a sensational 169 from captain Laura Wolvaardt. After being put in to bat, Wolvaardt anchored the innings, forming a 116-run opening stand before England’s Sophie Ecclestone (four wickets) sparked a mid-innings wobble.
At 202 for six, the innings was in the balance, but Wolvaardt took charge. She exploded in the final overs, smashing 69 runs from just 28 balls. Her brutal hitting, particularly against Linsey Smith, left England with a mountain to climb.
England’s chase never gained traction, collapsing in spectacular fashion to one for three. Marizanne Kapp was the destroyer, claiming a double-wicket maiden as Amy Jones and Heather Knight departed for ducks.
Kapp returned to finish with five for 20, also becoming the tournament’s all-time leading wicket-taker. Despite a 107-run stand for the fourth wicket, England were bowled out for 194, their campaign ending in a comprehensive defeat.
Proteas Power: 319-Run Total Overwhelms England in Semi-Final
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