In a thrilling encounter at Kimberley, South Africa Women emerged victorious against Sri Lanka Women in the second ODI of their three-match series. Opting to field first after winning the toss, South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt’s decision paid off handsomely as her team put in a stellar performance on both fronts.
Sri Lanka’s innings got off to a promising start thanks to captain Chamari Athapaththu’s resilient half-century. However, despite contributions from Hansima Karunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari, and Nilakshika Silva, the visitors could only manage a total of 229, courtesy of a disciplined bowling display from South Africa’s Nadine de Klerk and Ayabonga Khaka, who claimed three wickets each.
In response, Sri Lanka struck early with the ball, but Wolvaardt and Sune Luus steadied the ship with a crucial partnership. The game-changing moment came when Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp combined forces, crafting an unbeaten 147-run stand that steered South Africa towards victory. Wolvaardt’s magnificent century and Kapp’s vital 80 runs ensured a comfortable chase for the hosts, who sealed the win with seven wickets in hand.
With this commanding victory, South Africa Women have taken a commanding lead in the series, setting the stage for an exciting finale. Sri Lanka will look to bounce back in the third and final ODI, scheduled to take place on April 17th at Potchefstroom.
