COLOMBO—In a rain-affected and one-sided affair at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, South Africa defeated Pakistan by 150 runs via the DLS method, effectively knocking Pakistan out of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup. The dominant performance secured the Proteas the top position in the standings with a final group-stage game yet to play.
After Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl, South Africa posted a commanding total of 312 for 9 in a shortened 40-over innings. Captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a masterful 90 off 82 balls, building a crucial 118-run partnership with Sune Luus (61). All-rounder Marizanne Kapp provided the late flourish, smashing an unbeaten 68 from just 43 deliveries, while Nadine de Klerk added a blistering 41 off 16 to take the Proteas past the 300-run mark.
Pakistan's chase was immediately derailed by the formidable South African bowling attack. Ayabonga Khaka and a destructive Marizanne Kapp combined to dismantle the top order, reducing Pakistan to 35 for 4 before the rain returned. With the weather frequently interrupting play, Pakistan's target was constantly revised. The final and most improbable task was to score 186 runs from the final eight overs.
Facing an insurmountable challenge, Pakistan's batters could only manage 83 for 7 in their 20 overs. Marizanne Kapp, who was later named Player of the Match, completed a brilliant all-around performance by taking 3 for 20 with the ball. The result was Pakistan's heaviest defeat of the tournament and sealed their elimination, while South Africa celebrated their fifth consecutive win and a spot in the semi-finals.
Pakistan will play their final match against co-hosts Sri Lanka, while South Africa will face Australia in their last group fixture.
