Marizanne Kapp delivered a complete all round performance as South Africa secured a vital six wicket win over India in one of the most anticipated matches of the group stage. The victory strengthened South Africa’s chances of reaching the semi finals while keeping the qualification battle wide open.
After opting to bat first on a fresh Old Trafford surface, India began aggressively. Openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana attacked from the outset, putting pressure on the South African pace attack. Boundaries flowed regularly during the opening overs, helping India race to 47 for 1 after just four overs.
However, South Africa gradually wrestled back control. Shafali, who looked set for a much bigger score, departed for 31, while India then suffered a middle order wobble. Yastika Bhatia and Jemimah Rodrigues fell in quick succession, leaving the innings vulnerable despite the promising start.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur attempted to rebuild alongside Deepti Sharma, but neither batter managed to produce the substantial innings India desperately needed. Harmanpreet contributed 24 before being dismissed, while South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack restricted scoring opportunities during the closing overs. India eventually posted 158 for 6, with Kapp leading the effort through figures of 2 for 27 from her four overs.
South Africa’s reply got off to a shaky start. Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen were both dismissed by spinner N Shree Charani, leaving their side struggling at 25 for 2 at the end of the powerplay.
With the chase in danger of slipping away, Kapp joined Tazmin Brits at the crease and transformed the contest. The experienced pair stitched together a partnership worth 97 runs for the third wicket, steadily reducing the required rate while capitalising on scoring opportunities whenever they appeared.
Brits provided excellent support after returning to the side, while Kapp played with authority and confidence throughout her innings. India missed several opportunities in the field, allowing the South African all rounder to build momentum. She punished loose deliveries and accelerated at key moments to ensure the pressure remained on the bowlers.
Brits eventually departed, but the damage had already been done. Kapp remained unbeaten on 81 from just 45 deliveries, guiding South Africa comfortably to their target with six wickets in hand.
The result leaves both teams on four points in the standings. India now face must win encounters against Bangladesh and Australia, while South Africa will look to continue their momentum against Bangladesh and the Netherlands.
