Left-arm spinner Linsey Smith spearheaded the attack, returning outstanding figures of 3/7 from four overs. She dismissed South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt with the second ball of the second over, followed by Tazmin Brits in the fourth and Marizanne Kapp in the sixth, striking early and leaving the Proteas reeling. Smith’s clever use of angle and bounce exploited a pitch that offered little assistance to bowlers.
Pacer Lauren Bell added to the carnage, removing Sune Luus as South Africa slipped to 19/4 within six overs. England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt contributed with figures of 2/5, taking the wickets of Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk, effectively ending any hope of a fightback. Sophie Ecclestone (2/19) and Charlie Dean (2/14) shared the remaining wickets to wrap up the innings in 20.4 overs.
The collapse highlighted the struggles of South Africa’s middle and lower order, unable to handle England’s disciplined attack. Only Jafta offered some resistance, preventing the Proteas from hitting their lowest-ever World Cup score of 51.
England’s decision to bowl first proved decisive. Early breakthroughs set the tone, and the bowlers’ combination of spin, pace, and precision left South Africa with no answers. The result not only showcased the depth and versatility of England’s bowling unit but also sent a strong message to other teams in the tournament about the challenge of facing a full-strength, clinical English side.
