In a resounding start to their 2025 ICC ODI World Cup campaign, England secured a commanding ten-wicket victory over South Africa in Guwahati on Friday. The match showcased a stellar bowling performance from left-arm spinner Linsey Smith, who marked her World Cup debut by taking three wickets for just seven runs in four overs. South Africa struggled throughout the innings, collapsing to a mere 69 runs, their second-lowest total in World Cup history and the third lowest in One Day Internationals.
England’s bowlers, under the captaincy of Nat Sciver-Brunt, dominated as they bowled out the Proteas in just 20.4 overs. Sciver-Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone, and Charlie Dean each claimed two wickets, while Lauren Bell dismissed Sune Luus for just two runs. Smith’s early strikes set the tone for the match, as she removed dangerous openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, both for five runs, within the first four overs. Bell’s wicket of Luus added further pressure on South Africa. Smith continued her onslaught by dismissing all-rounder Marizanne Kapp and captain Anneke Bosch on her first delivery in the ninth over, causing the Proteas to lose half their side during the powerplay.
With a target of 70 runs, England chased down the modest score in just 14.1 overs, with wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones leading the charge with an unbeaten 40 runs. Tammy Beaumont also contributed 17 runs to seal a decisive victory. The only notable resistance for South Africa came from Sinalo Jafta, who scored 22 runs before falling to Ecclestone, who broke the stumps in the 18th over.
South Africa, who had shown promise leading up to the tournament, will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next match against the White Ferns on Monday. Meanwhile, England will remain in Guwahati to face Bangladesh on Tuesday, looking to build on their impressive opening performance. This victory not only boosts England’s confidence but also sends a strong message to their competitors about their title aspirations in this World Cup.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/england-decimate-sa-for-10-wicket-win-in-opening-game/articleshow/124512395.cms
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Publish Date: 2025-10-13 02:40:00
