Indore, (UNI) When New Zealand Women take on South Africa Women in the seventh match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 at Holkar Stadium here tomorrow all eyes will be on Sophie Devine. The White Ferns’ captain produced a scintillating century in their opening defeat against Australia Women, and if she clicks again, South Africa could be in deep trouble.
Devine’s 112-run effort, laced with twelve boundaries and three sixes, was the lone star in a batting lineup that otherwise struggled to build partnerships.
It was classic Devine – fearless, calculated, and unrelenting – and that kind of form can tilt a match single-handedly. Support came from Amelia Kerr, Brooke Halliday, and Maddy Green, but it was Devine who carried the innings, showing why she remains the heartbeat of the team.
The White Ferns will be banking on her experience and timing to set the tone against a South African side still reeling from a humiliating 69-run outing against England Women.
Bowling-wise, New Zealand have a potent arsenal. Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr led the attack with three wickets each in the opener, and alongside Amelia Kerr, Bree Illing, and Devine herself, they offer the kind of depth that can exploit any cracks in the South African batting.
On the other hand, the Proteas have their work cut out. Captain Laura Wolvaardt and Sinalo Jafta must take responsibility at the top, while the likes of Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, and Marizanne Kapp need to rebuild the innings under pressure.
Holkar Stadium is a batting-friendly venue, and Monday’s weather – sunny intervals with a gentle breeze – will only encourage stroke play. Winning the toss and electing to bat could allow New Zealand to set a challenging total, putting South Africa immediately on the back foot.
Historically, the White Ferns have dominated World Cup clashes against the Proteas, winning three of four meetings, and with Devine in prime form, that psychological edge looms large.
Tactically, New Zealand will aim to consolidate the top order and let Devine dictate terms, while ensuring timely breakthroughs from their bowlers. South Africa must avoid early collapses and look for partnerships to post a defendable total.
Predicted Playing XI – New Zealand Women: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (c), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Jess Kerr, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson, Bree Illing.
Predicted Playing XI – South Africa Women: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Anneke Bosch, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba.
With Devine at the crease and New Zealand’s depth in attack, the White Ferns are poised to register a comfortable victory over South Africa Women in this crucial World Cup clash.
