History makers: In a staggering display on Wednesday, the Proteas Women dismantled England Women by 125 runs in the semi-final of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in Guwahati, sealing their first-ever appearance in a senior World Cup final. Captain Laura Wolvaardt blazed her way to a match-defining 169, while veteran all-rounder Marizanne Kapp ripped through England’s batting, claiming 5/20 and becoming the tournament’s all-time leading wicket-taker.
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Dominant Batting Performance
Electing to bat first, South Africa scored a commanding 319-7 thanks to Wolvaardt’s magnificent ton. She partnered with Tazmin Brits (45) for a 116-run opening stand and then added 72 with Kapp (42) to fuel the avalanche of runs.
Wolvaardt’s innings featured 20 fours and 4 sixes, and her late-overs blitz, 69 runs in 28 balls, shattered England’s resolve. With England peaking in their chase, they never stood a chance.
With Ball in Hand: Kapp & Co.
Turning to bowl, South Africa struck early and hard. Kapp dismissed England’s top three batters inside three runs thanks to two-wicket maiden spells, backed by Ayabonga Khaka’s scalp of Tammy Beaumont. England ended 194 all out in 42.3 overs.
Kapp’s 5/20 not only sank England but also engraved her name in record books as the Women’s World Cup’s highest wicket-taker ever. Her legacy grew alongside the team’s breakthrough.
The Final Awaits
Now the Proteas await either Australia or hosts India in the final. Whoever the opponent, South Africa head into the match with momentum, big-match composure and belief that they belong. If Wolvaardt continues to fire and the bowlers hold their nerve, the trophy might well be within reach.
