Visakhapatnam, India – nadine de Klerk’s late-innings heroics secured a thrilling three-wicket victory for South Africa over bangladesh in the Women’s World Cup, extending their winning streak to three matches. The Proteas, chasing a target of 233, overcame a shaky top order to clinch the win with three balls to spare.
South Africa’s victory marks their second consecutive come-from-behind win in the tournament, demonstrating resilience after finding themselves at 78-5. While the Proteas celebrated, Bangladesh was left to contemplate costly fielding errors that proved pivotal in the outcome. This match underscores South Africa’s growing momentum in the World Cup adn highlights Bangladesh’s potential, tempered by missed opportunities.
Chloe Tryon (62 off 69 balls) and Marizanne Kapp (56 off 71 balls) spearheaded the recovery, building a crucial partnership after the early wickets. Kapp’s dismissal left 70 runs needed,bringing de Klerk to the crease – fresh off her match-winning performance against India.
the chase wasn’t without drama. Tryon was run out with 35 runs still required, and de Klerk faced tense moments in the penultimate over, miscuing twice.A dropped catch by Shorna Akter off de Klerk in the 49th over proved decisive, allowing the South African batter to capitalize on the reprieve.
De Klerk ultimately sealed the victory with a six over leg, finishing unbeaten on 37 from 29 balls.Earlier, Shorna Akter’s quickfire 50 (34 balls) had propelled Bangladesh to a competitive total of 232. Though, the fielding lapses proved costly.
Rabeya Khan dropped a straightforward catch off her own bowling, giving South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt an early reprieve. Later, substitute fielder Soumya Akter spilled a chance to dismiss Tryon on 46, with the subsequent delivery going for six. These dropped catches ultimately contributed to bangladesh’s defeat.
