Colombo, Oct 17 (UNI) South Africa Women moved a step closer to the semifinals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 with a commanding 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka Women in the 18th match at the R Premadasa Stadium here today.
Sri Lanka Women, electing to bat after winning the toss, were restricted to 105 for 7 in 20 overs. Vishmi Gunaratne (34) gave a promising start with multiple boundaries, while Hasini Perera (4) and Chamari Athapaththu (11) also contributed with shots that reached the ropes.
Masabata Klaas bowled a disciplined spell, removing Hasini Perera and Athapaththu, while Nonkululeko Mlaba starred with three wickets, including dismissals of Harshitha Madavi (13), Nilakshi de Silva (18), and Vishmi Gunaratne caught by Karabo Meso. The innings ended dramatically with the run-out of Anushka Sanjeewani off Mlaba’s throw.
Sri Lanka added only 59 runs in the final eight overs after the break, finishing on 105 for 7.
In response, South Africa Women comfortably chased the revised target of 121, adjusted due to a five-hour rain interruption, without losing a wicket.
Captain Laura Wolvaardt starred with an unbeaten 60 off 47 balls, hitting eight fours with elegant drives and cuts, while Tazmin Brits remained not out on 55, striking sixes and four boundaries, including a powerful over-the-keeper shot. Extras contributed 10 runs, including 8 wides, as South Africa cruised to victory.
With this win, South Africa jumped to second place in the tournament standings, putting one foot firmly in the semifinals.
The match was umpired by Gayathri Venugopalan and Vrinda Rathi, with Eloise Sheridan as the third umpire. GS Lakshmi served as the match referee.
Match Summary:
Sri Lanka Women 105/7 (20 overs)
South Africa Women 125/0 (14.5 overs) – South Africa won by 10 wickets (DLS Method).
The victory underscored South Africa’s dominance with both bat and ball, cementing their strong position in the tournament.
