The Momentum Proteas this morning maintained their unbeaten run at the ICC Woman’s World Cup with a nervy two-wicket victory over the host nation New Zealand in Hamilton.
A Devine Innings
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine won the toss and opted to have a bat first, with the opening batter playing a super innings. Devine was supported by Amelia Kerr (42) and Maddy Green (30), and for a while seemed like the Kiwis were destined to score close to 300.
The 32-year old Devine almost took the game away from South Africa but fell seven-runs short of her seventh WODI century.
Ayabonga Khaka got the major breakthrough, removing Devine. Her departure slowed New Zealand’s scoring dramatically. The Hosts eventually set the Momentum Proteas a target of 229 to chase.
100 avoidance
At the top of the South African Woman’s innings, Laura Wolvaardt (67) again produced the goods. She will however be disappointed that, for the fourth game in a row, she couldn’t covert a solid innings into three figures.
Captain Sune Luus also played an inspiring innings, reaching the half-century mark. Luus (51) was removed not too long after reaching the milestone. That brought about some nervy moments for the South Africans.
Luckily the Momentum Proteas could call upon experience to get the win. Veteran player, Marizanne Kapp was left with the responsibility and showed her class while proving that she’s a match-winner yet again. Kapp kept her cool, staying calm to hit the winning runs with just three balls to spare.
Take a bow, Marizanne Kapp 🔥
In a pressure chase against New Zealand, she guides South Africa to their fourth win in as many games in #CWC22 👏 pic.twitter.com/qZEtAw5XuL
— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) March 17, 2022
If you didn’t know it before, you know now. The Momentum Proteas can go all the way at the ICC Woman’s World Cup.
The South Africans will face their biggest test next. They meet the tournament favourites, Australia on Teusday (22 March 2022).
